Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Lagos State, spearheaded a three-day residential workshop aimed at fostering the holistic growth of boys. The event, titled “Champions of Tomorrow: Empowering Boys for a Better Future,” was held from February 16 to 18, 2025, at the Lagos State Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja.
The workshop gathered over 200 boys from various schools across Lagos, focusing on nurturing their physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. Dr. Sanwo-Olu emphasized the need to break gender stereotypes that often neglect the comprehensive development of boys, stating, “For a society to truly progress, we must ensure that our boys are not only educated but also emotionally intelligent, empathetic, and prepared to navigate life’s challenges.”
The program included sessions on modern parenting strategies, the role of boys in combating drug abuse, leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and digital literacy. Notable facilitators, including psychologists, educators, and youth advocates, led discussions and interactive sessions designed to equip boys with the tools necessary for personal growth and societal contribution.
One of the standout topics addressed was the fight against drug abuse among youths. The First Lady highlighted the importance of peer influence and the role boys can play in deterring substance use within their circles. “Our boys are not just future leaders; they are current influencers. Empowering them with knowledge and responsibility can significantly reduce the scourge of drug abuse,” she remarked.
The workshop also featured physical activities, team-building exercises, and workshops on life skills, underscoring the importance of a balanced approach to development. Discussions on masculinity in the modern world aimed to redefine what it means to be a man, promoting qualities like compassion, respect, and collaboration alongside traditional virtues like strength and courage.
Parents and guardians were not left out; they participated in parallel sessions to learn about supportive parenting techniques that foster open communication and understanding between them and their sons. Dr. Sanwo-Olu advocated for parents to be role models who exemplify positive behavior and values.
The initiative has been met with positive reactions from various quarters. On social media platforms, the workshop has been trending with users applauding the efforts to focus on boys’ development, which is often overshadowed by initiatives aimed at girls. There’s a growing acknowledgment of the need to address the unique challenges boys face in today’s society.
Educators and child psychologists who attended the event praised the First Lady’s initiative, seeing it as a step towards a more inclusive approach to child development. “This workshop is a crucial reminder that we must invest in our boys as much as we do in our girls to achieve true societal balance,” noted Dr. Adeola Adeyemi, a child psychologist present at the event.
As the workshop concluded, Dr. Sanwo-Olu announced plans for similar future events and a broader campaign to integrate these teachings into the state’s educational curriculum. Her office is also looking into establishing mentorship programs where boys can have positive male role models to guide them through adolescence and beyond.
This move by the Lagos First Lady not only highlights the urgent need for attention to boys’ development but also sets a precedent for other states in Nigeria to follow suit in fostering a generation of well-rounded, empowered young men.
