Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to promoting the welfare and development of every child with the official declaration of May 16 as Lagos Boy Child Day.
Eko Hot News reports that Governor Sanwo-Olu made the announcement during the Lagos State Stakeholders’ Engagement on the review of the Child’s Rights Law. The event also highlighted the institutionalisation of the Lagos Boy Child Initiative (LBCI), a programme championed by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the initiative began with a simple vision of ensuring that boys receive the same level of guidance, mentorship and support often provided through programmes designed for girls.
He noted that seeing the initiative evolve into a state-backed programme reflects the government’s dedication to inclusive child development and family values.
The Governor described the Lagos Boy Child Initiative as an important platform created to equip boys with positive values, life skills and opportunities that will prepare them for responsible adulthood.
According to him, nurturing confident and responsible young people remains essential to building stronger families and safer communities across Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu explained that the review of the Child’s Rights Law demonstrates the state government’s determination to ensure that existing legislation reflects present-day realities and adequately protects the interests of children.
He stressed that laws guiding child welfare must continue to evolve in response to emerging social and developmental needs.
The Governor reaffirmed that every child, regardless of gender or background, deserves equal opportunities to succeed in education, personal development and community life.
He added that the administration remains committed to creating policies and programmes that promote inclusion, protection and equal access to opportunities.
The Lagos Boy Child Initiative was conceived by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, to provide intentional mentorship and support for boys.
The programme seeks to promote discipline, emotional well-being, leadership, academic excellence and positive social values among young males.
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the First Lady for her vision and dedication to advancing child-focused initiatives across the state.
He noted that the programme complements other government efforts aimed at strengthening child protection, education and youth development.
The declaration of Lagos Boy Child Day is expected to raise greater awareness of issues affecting boys while encouraging stronger collaboration among parents, schools, faith-based organisations and community leaders.
Officials believe the annual observance will create additional opportunities to promote mentorship and positive role models.
Stakeholders at the engagement discussed ways to strengthen child protection policies and improve the implementation of the Child’s Rights Law across Lagos.
Participants also explored practical measures to ensure that every child enjoys a safe environment that supports healthy growth and development.
The State Government reiterated that protecting children remains a shared responsibility involving government institutions, families, educators and civil society organisations.
Officials encouraged continued collaboration to build an environment where children can realise their full potential.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the administration would continue investing in programmes that empower young people through education, mentorship and skills development.
He maintained that preparing children for the future requires sustained commitment, strategic partnerships and effective public policies.
The Governor emphasised that the message behind the initiative is simple: no child should be overlooked in the pursuit of a better society.
He said Lagos will continue implementing people-centred programmes that give every child the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
Observers described the institutionalisation of the Lagos Boy Child Initiative as another milestone in the state’s efforts to strengthen child welfare and promote balanced youth development.
They noted that initiatives supporting both boys and girls are important for building resilient families and sustainable communities.
With the official recognition of Lagos Boy Child Day and the ongoing review of the Child’s Rights Law, the state has reaffirmed its commitment to creating a future where every child is protected, supported and empowered.
The government expressed confidence that sustained collaboration among stakeholders will further strengthen child development and help raise responsible, confident and productive young citizens across Lagos.
