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International Day of The Boy-Child: Sexual Abuse Against Boys is More Prevalent Than We Know

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On this International Day of the Boy Child, it is important to draw attention to a pressing issue that warrants immediate action: sexual abuse against boys. Global statistics reveals that approximately 1 in 6 boys worldwide experience some form of sexual abuse before adulthood. Regrettably, these figures likely underestimate the true scope of the problem due to stigma, shame, and societal disbelief.

One of the most troubling aspects of this crisis is the neglect of sexual abuse against boys. Survivors frequently face scepticism and blame, with their experiences dismissed due to harmful misconceptions. The horrifying reality is that some believe if a boy experiences an erection during abuse, or actively participated in the act, somehow implies consent or enjoyment, perpetuating a culture of silence and shame, leaving survivors feeling isolated and invalidated.

It is important to emphasize that abuse perpetrated against boys below the age of consent constitutes rape, regardless of whether they actively participated in the act. The age of consent varies globally but typically ranges from 16 to 18 years old. Any sexual activity with a child below the age of consent is a violation of their rights and is a criminal offence.

The long-term effect of sexual abuse on boys are profound, extending beyond immediate trauma. Male survivors often suffer psychological and emotional challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships. The impact of abuse can persist into adulthood, impacting self-esteem, ability to trust others, and overall well-being.

It is clear that urgent action is needed to address this crisis and safeguard the rights of the boy child. We must advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of boys and establish social support centres that offer specialized services exclusive to male survivors of sexual abuse. These centers would provide a nurturing environment for boys to access the care and support needed for recovery.

It is critical to also acknowledge that women can abuse and rape boys. No survivor should be overlooked or dismissed based on the gender of their abuser and punishment for female perpetrators of abuse against boys must be enforced and taken seriously, just as it is for male perpetrators. All survivors deserve justice and support, regardless of the gender of their abuser. This equitable approach ensures that survivors are not further victimized by societal biases and that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions, irrespective of their gender.

We must challenge the harmful stereotypes and attitudes that perpetuate the stigma surrounding boy-child sexual abuse. Fellow men, in particular, have a responsibility to stand in solidarity with survivors and create a culture of empathy and support. It is time to put an end to the mockery and derision faced by boys and men who speak up about their experiences as survivors of sexual abuse.

Policy alone is not enough. Parents play a crucial role in protecting their sons from abuse by fostering open communication, teaching boundaries, and empowering them to speak up. We must also educate boys about consent, healthy relationships, and their right to bodily autonomy, empowering them to recognize and resist abuse.

We must confront the crisis of sexual abuse against boys head-on, dismantling barriers that prevent male survivors from seeking help and speaking out. By advocating for gender-specific support services and fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, we can create a world where all boys and men receive the assistance they need to heal and thrive.

In conclusion, achieving gender equality in access to support services for male survivors of sexual abuse is a fundamental human right. As we commemorate the International Day of the Boy Child, let us reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender, receive the support and assistance they need to heal and thrive.

Halima Layeni
Founder & Executive Director
Life After Abuse Foundation

About Halima Layeni

Halima Layeni is an incandescent advocate for men’s mental health, leading the charge as the Founder and Executive Director of Life After Abuse Foundation. Through her leadership, Halima is reshaping the global discourse surrounding mental health equity and gender equality with a specific emphasis on advancing men’s mental health on a global scale.

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Lagos Announces Traffic Diversions for Wednesday and Thursday Project Commissionings

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The Lagos State Government has unveiled a comprehensive traffic diversion plan for Wednesday, April 8, and Thursday, April 9, 2026, in preparation for the commissioning of several key infrastructure projects by President Bola Tinubu.

According to the state Ministry of Transportation, partial road closures and diversions will be implemented in affected areas to ensure smooth movement during the events, which include the inauguration of the Ojota-Opebi Link Bridge and other major projects such as the Lagos State Geographic Information Service building in Alausa and the Tolu Schools Complex.

On Wednesday, April 8, diversions will be enforced around venues for the commissioning ceremonies, while on Thursday, April 9, restrictions will apply between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. during the Tolu Schools Complex event and additional project unveilings.

Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes and plan their journeys accordingly to avoid delays. The government urged residents and commuters to cooperate with traffic management officials and security personnel deployed to the areas.

The projects form part of ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and education facilities across the state. Further details on specific diversion routes are expected to be released by the Ministry of Transportation in the coming hours.

Commuters are encouraged to monitor official announcements via Lagos State traffic radio and social media handles for real-time updates.

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Abiodun Presents Ceremonial Sword to Tinubu, Urges Sustained War on Crime

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Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has presented a ceremonial sword to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, symbolically conferring on him the title of “Jagaban” (leader of warriors and conquerors), while calling for continued aggressive action against crime and insecurity across Nigeria.

The presentation took place during President Tinubu’s official visit to Ogun State on Saturday, where he was received warmly by the governor and other dignitaries.

Governor Abiodun described the sword as a mark of appreciation and a charge to the President to press on with his administration’s security efforts.

In his remarks, Abiodun reminded Tinubu of the strong political and personal ties between them, noting that Ogun State was where the President had previously made significant declarations.

He urged Tinubu to maintain the momentum in the war against criminal elements, banditry, and other threats to national peace.

President Tinubu, who has repeatedly vowed to defeat insecurity by mobilising all military and law enforcement assets, received the gift amid smiles and applause. His administration has emphasised reforms in security architecture, including procurement of new equipment for the armed forces and enhanced coordination among agencies.

The event formed part of a broader visit during which the President is expected to commission key infrastructure projects in the state, including developments linked to the Gateway International Airport. Governor Abiodun used the occasion to commend Tinubu’s economic reforms, such as foreign exchange unification and fuel subsidy removal, describing them as necessary steps that are already yielding positive impacts.

Security analysts view the symbolic gesture as a show of solidarity between the state and federal government in tackling Nigeria’s persistent security challenges. The “Jagaban” title, rooted in Yoruba cultural and warrior traditions, underscores expectations of strong, decisive leadership in the ongoing fight against crime.

The Presidency has not issued a detailed official statement on the sword presentation, but sources close to the visit described it as a morale-boosting moment that reinforced the alliance between the two leaders.

This development comes as the federal government continues to prioritise national security, with recent commitments to equip the military and intensify operations against threats in various parts of the country.

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BudgIT appoints Nigeria Country Director

He brought with him a track record in governance, research, and institutional leadership.

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BudgIT has appointed Mr. Vahyala Kwaga as Country Director for Nigeria.

The appointment took effect on April 1, 2026.Kwaga was appointed following a leadership transition within the civic-tech organisation.

He brought with him a track record in governance, research, and institutional leadership.

Since joining BudgIT in 2021, Kwaga has held several leadership roles, including Senior Researcher, Head of the Open Government and Institutional Partnerships (OGIP) Unit, Group Head of Research and OGIP, and Deputy Country Director.

In these positions, he contributed to strengthening BudgIT’s research output, deepening its policy engagement, and improving coordination across programmes.

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