International Day for Boy Child: NHRC engages boys in friendly football match in Jos 

By Ezekiel Dontinna 

In commemoration of the International Day of Boy Child, the Plateau State Office of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), has engaged boys from different schools in a friendly match to build self-esteem in boys.

This took place at the Government Secondary School Hei Rayfield football field in Jos-South Local Government Area of Plateau State amidst cheers by people last Friday.

Addressing the players during the kickoff, the State Coordinator of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Mrs Kiyenpiya Mafuyai, represented by Mrs Ronke Moody, the Deputy Director Public Affairs, the State Coordinator, said it was to encourage emotional expression and each boys that it’s okay to express their emotions and vulnerabilities. 

She added that, it was also to make them to recognize that anger and aggression were natural emotions, but learn to manage and express them in healthy, lawful ways. 

Mafuyai, therefore, urged the boys to talk to someone they trust about their feelings and emotions without fear of judgment to foster positive relationships.

She said, “surround boys with supportive role models who promote healthy masculinity. Look for mentors who demonstrate healthy anger management and emotional expression. 

“It is also to promote inclusivity and diversity: Celebrate individuality and diversity, helping boys to understand that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses.

“And to provide opportunities for growth: Encourage boys to take risks, try new things , new things, and learn from their mistakes, explore and create positively and Embrace virtues such as empathy, patience, self control and kindness”, the Plateau State Coordinator emphasised.

She, however, encouraged them to see themselves as human being whose rights were guaranteed and protected because they were valued, hence the need for them to not be afraid to speak up about their struggles and emotions.

The human right expert, therefore, called on them to work together by creating supportive environment that promotes their well-being and development through the management of their emotions and seeking help when needed.