Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening families and promoting the welfare of the boy child as part of efforts to advance social development in the country.
The minister made this known during the International Family Day Picnic held at Harrow Park, Wuse II, Abuja, to mark the 2026 International Family Day and International Day of the Boy Child.
Speaking at the event, Suleiman-Ibrahim described the family as the bedrock of national growth, stressing that stronger homes would ultimately lead to a stronger society.
She revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration had designated 2026 as the “Year of the Family and Social Development,” noting that the move reflects the government’s recognition of the vital role families play in nation building.
According to her, the Federal Government is focused on helping families become more stable and united in order to improve healthcare, education and social wellbeing across the country.
“Our message to Nigerian families is that it is truly family o’clock. Every family must use this period to strengthen from within so society itself can become stronger,” she said.
The minister described the 2026 celebration as a pilot initiative and expressed optimism that future editions would witness broader participation from communities nationwide.
She also commended President Tinubu for prioritising human capital development and giving governance what she termed “a human face,” adding that families are now receiving greater attention under the administration’s social development agenda.
Suleiman-Ibrahim further appreciated Nigeria’s First Lady for supporting programmes focused on children and family welfare, while announcing plans for the upcoming Children’s Day celebration.
On the International Day of the Boy Child, the minister said the ministry was now placing renewed attention on boys’ welfare and development, noting that past advocacy efforts largely concentrated on women and girls.
“In the past, attention was mainly on women and girls. We left the boys behind, but not anymore,” she stated.
She disclosed that the ministry was working towards introducing a national policy for the boy child aimed at addressing their emotional, social and developmental needs.
The minister urged boys to embrace values of responsibility, respect and partnership with girls and women, describing them as future leaders and protectors in society.
She called on Nigerians to work collectively towards building stronger families and a more inclusive society.
