Ikorodu, Lagos, April 22, 2025 — Today marked a pivotal moment in youth empowerment and violence prevention as the Boys Mentoring Advocacy Network (BMAN) officially launched the Peace Pledge for Boys Campaign at the BMAN Centre in Ikorodu, Lagos. Amidst an atmosphere charged with energy, hope, and a spirit of unity, the pioneering boys gathered
At the Boys Mentoring Advocacy Network (BMAN), we recognize the challenges faced by boys trapped in gangs who wish to leave. Exiting a gang is a complex and often perilous process, requiring careful planning and support. In this post, we explore effective strategies to help these young individuals transition out of gang life. Understanding Gang
The father-son relationship is a crucial aspect of a boy’s development, shaping his self-esteem, identity, and future relationships. However, this relationship is not always straightforward. Boys commonly face concerns about their fathers that can influence their emotional and psychological well-being. In this post, we explore these concerns, provide illustrative scenarios, and back our discussion with
Suicide is a critical public health issue, and its impact on boys and young men is particularly poignant. While various factors contribute to this tragic outcome, certain missing qualities or protective factors can significantly influence the risk. In this blog post, we will explore the essential qualities that, when absent, may contribute to increased vulnerability
The concept of the “father wound” refers to the psychological and emotional pain or void that arises from a father’s absence, neglect, or abusive behavior. This issue can significantly impact a boy’s development and self-esteem, leading to long-term effects on relationships and personal growth. Recognizing the signs of a father wound is essential for providing
Getting boys to talk about their problems can sometimes seem like a daunting task for mothers. Societal expectations and traditional gender norms often discourage boys from expressing vulnerability. However, helping boys open up about their challenges is crucial for their emotional health and development. In this blog post, we explore strategies mothers can employ to
Staying focused can be a daunting challenge especially for young boys in today’s fast-paced digital age. With constant notifications, social media, online games, and an array of digital distractions vying for attention, it’s no wonder many struggle to concentrate on tasks at hand. However, learning how to find and maintain focus is not only crucial
Drug abuse continues to be a prevalent issue that affects individuals across all demographics, and boys are no exception. While drug abuse affects both genders, boys often find themselves more vulnerable to its grip due to various societal and psychological factors. The lure of drugs, commonly referred to as the hook, presents itself in numerous
It is all too common to see boys who have made mistakes being cast aside and abandoned by the world around them. Whether it is due to a lack of support from their families, teachers, or the community as a whole, these boys often internalize the message that they are not worthy of redemption or
Mentorship plays a critical role in guiding young boys toward personal and academic success. It provides them with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges and seize opportunities. Despite the clear benefits, several misconceptions about mentoring boys often deter potential mentors and stakeholders from participating or supporting such programs. The Boys Mentoring Advocacy Network