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The government has been urged to establish a Ministry or Department of Men Affairs to address the growing social, economic and psychological challenges confronting the boy child and men in society.
Speaking during her 2026 birthday anniversary, an advocate of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Dr Divine Archibong, proposed a Change Agent Theory of Administration (CATA) as a governance framework designed to promote inclusive development through strategic investments in family stability, social welfare and human capital development.
According to her, while significant attention has rightly been given to women and girl-child development, there is an urgent need for dedicated policies and institutional structures focused on the welfare, mentorship and empowerment of boys and men.
She noted that issues such as unemployment, school dropouts, substance abuse, mental health challenges, family instability, harmful social norms and exposure to criminal influences continue to affect many young men, with far-reaching consequences for families, workplaces and national development.
“The empowerment of women and girls should be complemented by deliberate efforts to guide, mentor, and support boys and men.
“Sustainable development requires an inclusive approach that leaves no group behind.”
Archibong explained that a Ministry or Department of Men Affairs would coordinate mentorship, counselling, psychosocial support, leadership development and intervention programmes aimed at promoting responsible masculinity, healthy relationships, emotional intelligence and positive societal values.
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She argued that the creation of such a department would play a significant role in reducing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), including rape, domestic violence and other forms of abuse, by addressing the root causes of harmful behaviour through education, character development and early intervention programmes for boys and young men.
“Strengthening the boy child is critical to building responsible men who will contribute meaningfully to peaceful families, productive workplaces, and stable communities.”
She disclosed that a deliberate focus on male development would help curb moral decadence, promote respect for human dignity and foster a culture of accountability and mutual respect within society.
Archibong insisted that empowering men and women simultaneously remains essential for achieving sustainable development, social harmony and stronger family systems across Africa.
“I call on governments, policymakers, development partners, civil society organisations and community leaders to begin conversations around institutional mechanisms that support the positive development of boys and men.
“A balanced societal progress can only be achieved when both genders are intentionally empowered and supported.”
