International Day of the Boy Child: Stakeholders Call for End to Neglect and Street Children Phenomenon
By Stanley Smiles,
Ezekiel Dantina and Jemimah Abe.
Jos, Plateau State – The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and other stakeholders have emphasized the need to address the neglect of the boy child and end the phenomenon of street children. This call was made during an event to mark the International Day of the Boy Child, held at the Secretariat Roundabout in Jos.
The commemoration of the International Day of the Boy Child, which began in 2018, aims to raise awareness about the need to protect boys from harmful societal influences and draw attention to their plight. This year’s theme focuses on the well-being of boys and the need for their voices to be heard and their needs to be met, so they can feel safe and valued in their families and communities.
NHRC State Coordinator, Mrs. Veronica Abe, noted that a large number of boys are left unsupervised, exposing them to negative influences and exploitation. She called on the government to intervene with policies and interventions to help boys realize their potential and stressed the need for more educational and vocational centers.
Other stakeholders, including the Movement for the Rights of Almajiri Child, parents, and guardians, also emphasized the need for collective responsibility in addressing the plight of the boy child. Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has directed the immediate assessment and remodeling of the Young People’s Home Laranto, as part of his efforts to demonstrate his love for children without hope.
The Chairperson of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, Barr. Olivia Dazyem, assured that the government is paying special attention to children’s issues and has instructed the Commissioner to assess the Young People’s Home Orphanage Laranto for remodeling.
The event featured goodwill messages from various stakeholders, including the Nigeria Network of Jama’atu Nasir Islam and the Boy’s Brigade Nigeria, who called for inclusive support for all children, regardless of gender.
