By Etop Ekanem

The Soledotun Abdulkarim-Yusuf Foundation in collaboration with La Dots Partycity, recently, held its grand finale of the “I Am a Boy of Value Because…” campaign to commemorate International Boy Child Day 2026.

The programme, which took place at Ijaiye Housing Estate Mosque Hall by Estate Junior High School,

Ifako-Ijaiye, Lagos focused on empowering boys between the ages of 10 to 17 years by building confidence, instilling positive values, and encouraging self-expression and purposeful living.

Speaking at the occasion, Founder and Chairman of Soledotun Abdulkarim-Yusuf Foundation,  Hajja Soledotun Abdulkarim-Yusuf, named the objectives of the programme to include amplifying the voices of boys; promoting self-worth and confidence; encouraging responsible and value-driven behaviour; providing a platform for self-expression and advocating the empowerment of the boy child.

According to her, “Today is a very special day. We are not just gathered here to celebrate an event, we are here to celebrate potential, purpose, and the future. Over the past days, we have listened to the voices of our boys, bold, honest, and inspiring voices.

“Over the past days, we have listened to the voices of our boys, bold, honest and inspiring voices. We heard them say: ‘I am a boy of value because I am responsible; I am a boy of value because I respect others; I am a boy of value because I have dreams.’

“And in those simple but powerful statements, we are reminded of one truth. Every boy has value. Every boy has a voice. Every boy has a future worth investing in.

“Our theme this year, ‘Raising Boys of Value and Purpose,’ is not just a statement, it is a call to action A call to parents to guide intentionally; a call to society to pay attention and a call to leaders to invest in the boy child. Because when boys are ignored, society feels the impact. But when boys are guided, mentored, and empowered, they grow into men of integrity, responsibility, and impact.

“To our dear boys here today, I want you to remember this: You are not defined by your environment. You are not limited by your background. You are not alone. You are strong. You are capable. You are important.and most importantly, you are a boy of value.

“As we celebrate today, let us not stop here. Let this be the beginning of deeper commitment, stronger advocacy, and greater impact. Together, we can raise boys who will not only succeed, but will lead with character, compassion, and purpose.”

The programme recorded significant participation and impact as over 15 schools participated. No fewer than 100 boys attended the event.

The guest speaker was Sikiru Adebimpe Eyiowuawi, retired Director of Social Welfare, Lagos State, who delivered an insightful and impactful presentation