Today, as we join in the global celebration of International Men’s Day, it’s a moment to reflect on the often overlooked but undeniable role that men play in society. While the spotlight is often shone brightly on women and their contributions—rightfully so—there is an unsettling gap when it comes to the recognition and celebration of men.
This day offers us a chance to pause and appreciate the essential, and sometimes silent, strength that men contribute to the family, community, and society at large. It is a day that, sadly, does not receive the same level of attention as other observances dedicated to women. Yet, it is just as important, if not more so, in the way it highlights the balance we need in appreciating both men and women for the richness they bring to our world.
The Role of Men: Silent Builders of Society
At the heart of International Men’s Day is a simple, yet profound, truth: men matter. They matter in every facet of life—family, career, community, and even in the world of art and culture. From the fathers who provide for their children to the young men who challenge societal norms and the leaders who steer nations, men are integral to the structure of any society. Often, their contributions go unnoticed or uncelebrated.
In Nigeria, for instance, men are the backbone of many families. While gender roles have evolved in recent years, traditional values still place a significant responsibility on men to be providers, protectors, and leaders within the household. Fathers work tirelessly to ensure that their children are fed, educated, and given opportunities to thrive.
In the workplace, men are often seen in leadership roles or as the driving forces behind businesses, politics, and social institutions. Yet, in all of these spaces, we rarely take a moment to appreciate them for their emotional labor, sacrifices, and vulnerabilities.
What makes this day important is not just the celebration of what men do, but the acknowledgment of who they are. Men are not merely defined by their roles in the family or workplace, but by their humanity—their desires, struggles, fears, and dreams.
Too often, men are expected to be stoic, to carry burdens without showing weakness, and to suppress emotions in the name of “being strong.” But this unrealistic standard comes with a heavy price. Mental health issues, which disproportionately affect men, often go unaddressed because society tells them to stay silent.
International Men’s Day should not only be about celebrating the accomplishments of men but also about addressing the social issues they face. Men, like women, are not immune to emotional pain, yet their struggles are often dismissed or ignored. By creating a space where men can talk openly about their mental health, we can begin to break down the barriers of silence and stigma that hold them back from seeking help.
On this International Men’s Day, let us take a moment to reflect on the men who have shaped our lives and communities. Whether as fathers, sons, mentors, or leaders, they deserve our recognition, support, and understanding. Let us also commit to fostering a society where men can express themselves freely, seek help when needed, and live without fear of being judged for their vulnerabilities.
International Men’s Day is more than just a celebration; it is a call to action. It is an opportunity to highlight the importance of men in our lives, to challenge the stereotypes that limit their emotional freedom, and to create a world where both men and women are equally celebrated, equally supported, and equally empowered. Today, let us honour the men who have quietly built the foundations of our world, and let us pledge to create a future where both men and women can stand side by side in mutual respect and equality.
