In a bid to address the growing developmental gap affecting young boys in Nigeria, a nongovernmental organisation, Udumas Development Initiative (UDI), has urged governments at all levels and stakeholders in the education sector to prioritize mentorship and empowerment programs tailored for the boy child.
The founder of UDI, Dr. Patrick Uduma, made the call during a media briefing at the second edition of The Equipped Boy Child Annual Conference, themed “Outmatched Boys”, held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The Equipped Boy Child is a community-based initiative under UDI, targeting boys between the ages of 9 and 20. According to Dr. Uduma, the program was launched to instill core moral values, leadership skills, and educational guidance in boys who are often left behind in conversations around youth development.
“There’s a noticeable imbalance,” Uduma stated. “We’re raising and equipping girls with values, education, and training, but leaving the boys untrained. This neglect has implications on the future of leadership and society. If we help a boy discover his identity early, we set the foundation for a stronger, more responsible nation.”
He further appealed to the government, educators, corporate organisations, and public relations professionals to support the initiative. “Our resources are limited and self-funded. But with strategic partnerships, we can scale this movement. We are transparent and committed to monitoring the growth of every boy we mentor,” he assured.
Acknowledging the media’s role in awareness, he appreciated journalists for amplifying the cause and sustaining public engagement.
The impact of the conference was evident in the testimonies of young participants. Israel Benjamin, a 14-year-old student of De Famous Kids Academy, shared, “Before attending, I didn’t feel confident. But this program transformed me. I’ve learned about values, principles, and setting priorities.”
Similarly, 17-year-old Chibuike Njoku from Jodec Unique International Schools praised the initiative and expressed gratitude to the sponsors for the life-changing opportunity.
The event drew students from over 15 schools and featured motivational speeches, cultural dance performances, and interactive sessions, all geared toward building a new generation of empowered and value-driven young men.
— Hobnob News
