A social impact group calls for urgent support for men’s mental health in Nigeria as International Men’s Day highlights challenges facing men and boys

As the world marked International Men’s Day, a social impact organisation has renewed calls for greater support for men’s mental health in Nigeria, warning that neglecting men’s emotional wellbeing risks harming families, communities, and national development.

Also read: Super Eagles Rise to 38th in FIFA Rankings

The Initiative for Social Impact and Sustainable Development, speaking on the significance of the global celebration, said the 2025 theme, “Celebrating Men and Boys,” serves as a reminder of the vital roles men play and the pressures they silently endure.

Co-ordinator Funmi Falobi noted that men contribute significantly to the socio-economic and political progress of the country, yet many struggle privately with emotional strain and psychological distress.

She emphasised that the nation cannot continue to overlook men’s mental health if it hopes to build a safe, balanced, and resilient society.

Falobi praised men’s consistent resilience and achievements but stressed that strength should never be mistaken for immunity to stress or trauma.

She called on government agencies, private institutions, and community leaders to develop structured support systems that allow men and boys to seek help without fear of judgement.

According to her, celebrating men must move beyond symbolic gestures and include practical mental health interventions, access to counselling, and public campaigns to reduce the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.

She described proactive support as a decisive and powerful step toward improving societal wellbeing.

Also read: State Police Could Save Nigeria from Rising Violence

Her remarks come as mental health experts across the country continue warning of rising cases of depression, anxiety, and suicide among men, urging Nigerian stakeholders to adopt a more compassionate and strategic response.