International Men’s Day 2025: Celebrating Men and Boys, Honouring Strength and Humanity by GrandprinceIta

Yesterday, the world observed International Men’s Day, an annual event dedicated to recognising the positive value men and boys bring to families, communities, and society. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Men and Boys,” calls for renewed attention on the emotional, mental, social and physical well-being of men everywhere. More than a celebration, the day serves as a reminder that men also face pressures, vulnerabilities, and expectations that often go unspoken. In many societies, especially across Africa, men are encouraged to be strong but rarely encouraged to seek help, embrace vulnerability, or prioritise their health. International Men’s Day invites a shift—from silent endurance to healthy, balanced living. Why This Day Matters: Men contribute as protectors, providers, mentors, innovators, caregivers, and nation-builders. Yet, high rates of mental-health challenges, stress-related illnesses, workplace hazards and Societal expectations continue to affect their quality of life. Recognising these realities is not about elevating men above others; it’s about acknowledging that well-being is a universal human need. Celebrating men means: ● Appreciating fathers, brothers, sons, mentors and male role models who positively shape lives. ● Encouraging men to embrace emotional openness without shame. ● Supporting boys to grow into healthy, empathetic, confident adults. ● Challenging harmful stereotypes that box men into silence or pressure them into unhealthy masculinity. A Call for Better Support Systems In Nigeria and across the continent, the day highlighted an urgent need to prioritise men’s health — from mental health access to preventive care. It also invites families and communities to pay closer attention to the emotional lives of men, who often carry burdens quietly. International Men’s Day is, ultimately, a call for balance. When men and boys thrive—mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally—families are stronger, communities are safer, and society progresses. We celebrated the strength, resilience, tenderness, and humanity of men and boys everywhere. May this recognition move beyond a single day and become an everyday culture of appreciation and support.