Open letter calls for Nigeria’s first Ministry of Men Affairs to address men’s urgent needs

Dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,

I am compelled to address a critical issue of national significance—the establishment of Nigeria’s inaugural Ministry of Men Affairs. This initiative is not merely an administrative reform but a fundamental step towards rectifying the persistent neglect of men’s unique challenges within our society.

Men in Nigeria are grappling with a host of severe and often overlooked issues. They are victims of violence, including domestic abuse and assault, which remains starkly underreported due to entrenched societal stigmas. Men also endure alarmingly high rates of depression and suicide, exacerbated by societal expectations and a conspicuous lack of targeted support.

Economic instability further aggravates these challenges, with many men deprived of crucial opportunities for skill development and economic empowerment. Cultural norms frequently prevent men from seeking help, leading to unaddressed mental health issues and violence. Despite these severe struggles, men continue to fulfill their roles as providers, breadwinners, husbands, and fathers, often shouldering these burdens with silent fortitude.

To address these critical issues, the establishment of a Ministry of Men Affairs should focus on five key areas. Firstly, improving health outcomes for men is essential; this involves creating dedicated services to tackle the silent crisis of mental health, promoting tailored healthcare initiatives, and educational programs designed specifically for men.

Secondly, addressing violence against men requires the creation of robust mechanisms for reporting and support, ensuring that male victims of violence receive the necessary protection and justice.

Thirdly, enhancing economic stability is crucial; this entails developing targeted opportunities for skill enhancement, entrepreneurship, and career advancement, thereby improving economic prospects for men.

Fourthly, reducing suicide rates among men demands the implementation of comprehensive programs that provide crisis intervention and support, directly targeting the high incidence of suicide in this demographic.

Lastly, strengthening family dynamics by providing support for men in their familial roles will foster social stability and help mitigate issues related to family breakdown and domestic violence.

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The establishment of this ministry will unequivocally advance gender equality by ensuring that men receive the same level of support, opportunities, and empowerment that has been long afforded to other demographics. Empowered men are more capable of contributing positively to society, thereby benefiting their families, communities, and the national economy.

Existing governmental agencies address aspects of men’s issues but fall short due to stigma and a lack of specialized focus. A dedicated ministry will bridge these gaps, offering targeted support and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help.

Men make profound contributions as fathers, husbands, friends, community leaders, and professionals across diverse sectors. Their pivotal roles as breadwinners and community builders are invaluable. It is however essential to recognize and support these contributions equitably.

Men continue to excel in leadership roles within health, technology, finance, and politics, often struggling in silence. Establishing this ministry will ensure they receive the support necessary to thrive, reinforcing their invaluable contributions to society.

Mr President, I believe the establishment of the Ministry of Men Affairs will position your administration as a vanguard in the pursuit of true gender equality and social justice. It will be a defining achievement, underscoring your commitment to comprehensive and inclusive governance. This initiative will not only promote a healthier and more productive society but also contribute significantly to social stability and economic productivity.

I hereby call upon your esteemed office to take the following immediate actions:

1. Immediately approve and establish the Ministry of Men Affairs and the allocation of resources and appointment of key personnel to initiate the ministry’s activities.

2. Allocate resources to develop and implement health programs specifically for men, mirroring support initiatives for other demographics to reduce stigma and provide essential services.

3. Develop and support policies and programs for empowering boys and men, including vocational training, educational opportunities, and employment initiatives to ensure gender parity in opportunities and growth.

4. Intensify efforts to raise awareness about violence against men and establish accessible platforms for reporting and support, ensuring justice and assistance for male victims of violence.

The creation of the Ministry of Men Affairs will be a transformative legacy of your administration. It will ensure that men, constituting half of our population, receive the support and opportunities essential for their well-being and prosperity. This bold action will be remembered as a significant and enduring contribution to gender equality and social justice in Nigeria.

Thank you for your attention to this crucial matter. I look forward to witnessing the positive changes this ministry will bring to our nation.

Halima Layeni

About Author

Halima Layeni is an incandescent Men’s Mental Health advocate, the Founder & Executive Director of the Life After Abuse Foundation, a U.S. Consul General Award Recipient, an Nguvu Collective Changemaker, a 1000 Voices Indrani Women Treaty Fellow and a Carrington Youth Fellow

Email address: [email protected]