Boyhood, International Day of Living Together In Peace, Masculinity, Press Room, World Day of The Boy Child
BMAN Empowers Boys with Peace and Unity on International Day of Living Together in Peace
In a vibrant celebration of unity and mentorship, the Boys Mentoring Advocacy Network (BMAN) marked the International Day of Living Together in Peace and World Day of the Boy Child on May 16, 2025, with a dual focus on peacebuilding and empowerment. The event, held at the BMAN Centre in Ikorodu, Lagos, brought together boys from underserved communities for a day of learning, reflection, and adventure.
Peacebuilding Workshop: Cultivating Tolerance, Inclusion and Solidarity
Aligned with UN Resolution 72/130, which champions global efforts to foster inclusive societies, BMAN organized interactive workshops on conflict resolution, empathy, and cross-cultural understanding. Facilitators guided participants through role-playing exercises and group discussions, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in bridging divides.
“True peace begins with understanding,” said Ola Akinwe, Founder and President of BMAN. “By equipping boys with tools to listen, respect differences, and stand against violence, we’re nurturing a generation that values unity over division.”
Horse Riding: Building Confidence and Teamwork
In a unique twist, the boys embarked on a horse-riding excursion at the Parkview Estate, Ikorodu. The activity, designed to symbolize the journey toward inner and collective peace, taught participants trust, leadership, and resilience. Equine therapy experts highlighted how bonding with animals can foster emotional regulation and teamwork—skills critical to resolving conflicts peacefully.
“Riding a horse felt like facing my fears,” shared, Michael 14, a participant from Parkview Estate Ikorodu. “It taught me that calmness and communication can overcome any obstacle.”
A Dual Observance with Global Significance
The event honored two pivotal occasions:
- International Day of Living Together in Peace: A UN-designated day urging global solidarity and respect for diversity.
- World Day of the Boy Child: Advocates for boys’ well-being, education, and protection from violence.
BMAN’s initiative underscored the interconnectedness of these themes, demonstrating how empowering boys as peacemakers benefits entire communities.
Community Impact and Future Plans
The day concluded with a public pledge ceremony, where boys committed to promoting tolerance and non-violence in their neighborhoods. BMAN also announced plans to expand its Peace Ambassador Program, training 500 boys across Lagos by the end of 2025.
Quote of the Day:
“When we invest in boys, we invest in peace. Their courage today will shape a harmonious tomorrow.” — Ola Akinwe
Join the Movement: https://goto.gg/62516
To support BMAN’s initiatives or learn more, visit www.bmanadvocacy.org or contact +234 802 301 0608.
#LivingTogetherInPeace #WorldDayOfTheBoyChild #BMANPeacePledge
About BMAN:
The Boys Mentoring Advocacy Network (BMAN) is an NGO dedicated to mentoring boys in underserved communities to become ethical leaders and advocates for peace. Since 2017, BMAN has impacted over 22,000 boys through workshops, mentorship, and advocacy programs.
Media Contact: +234 815 500 2255
