Abia State Governor’s Wife, Mrs. Priscilla Otti says that the state government under Governor Otti is taking deliberate steps to creates environment that listens to the voices of the boy child, validates their emotions, and celebrates their achievements.
Mrs. Otti stated this at the Jaac Building beside the state government secretariat in Umuahia today in an occasion to marks this year 2025 International Day of the Boy Child with the theme ‘Building Self Esteem in Boys: stand up, be heard, be seen’.
Mrs. Otti pointed out that as parents, guardians, and mentors, we play a vital role in shaping who our boys become.
We must model positive behaviour, offer constructive feedback, and provide unconditional love and support.
The words we speak to our boys—and the ones we fail to say—leave lasting imprints.
According to her, “this year’s theme, “Building Self-Esteem in Boys: Stand Up, Be Heard, Be Seen,” resonates deeply with me.
Cross Section of Abia Boys During the Commemoration
Boys face unique challenges in today’s world. Societal expectations, peer pressure, negative media influence, and even cultural silence around their emotional needs can undermine their confidence and self-worth.
But we must remember that our boys are not just future leaders—they are our present-day heroes. They need support, validation, and empowerment to grow into responsible, compassionate men,” she said.
Mrs. Otti also explained that while she recognizes the impact of poverty on the boy child she frowned that too many of our boys are drawn into street hawking, child labour, drug abuse, and gang activity—not by choice, but by circumstance.
As a government and as a people, we must address the root causes of these challenges through education, family support, skills acquisition, and structured mentorship.
She expressed that her office has continued to drive programs that focuses on mentorship, counselling, and capacity-building for our young boys.
These programs she said are designed to help them build confidence, develop life skills, and aspire to greatness.
“But beyond programs and policies, our boys need positive male role models—fathers, uncles, teachers, community leaders—who will show them by example what it means to be a man of honour, respect, and integrity” Mrs. Otti further stated.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Maureen Aghukwa noted that this first ever celebration in Abia State, emphasizes the dedication of the state government to fostering awareness about the rights, health, education, and emotional needs of boys.
Dr. Aghukwa maintained that it is an opportunity to reflect on how we can better serve our boys, provide them with positive role models, and create an environment where they can boldly stand up for their rights, heard and be seen.
She commended the wife of the Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti for collaborating with the ministry to commemorates the day.
Meanwhile, the event featured drama, quiz competition, cultural dance, and pep talk by the invited guest.
