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UNILAG Community Marks International Men’s Day With Staff-Led Initiative

For the men of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Wednesday, November 19, 2025, marked a significant moment of recognition and celebration as the institution, in collaboration with the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), hosted an awareness rally to champion male wellbeing and amplify advocacy against violence affecting men.

The event, which drew enthusiastic participation from staff and students alike, was spearheaded by Elder Adedini Oluropo of the Bursary Unit.

The awareness rally, which was held as part of activities to mark the 2025 International Men’s Day, commenced at the Professor Adetokunbo Babatunde Sofoluwe Park. Throughout the carnival-like procession to the University’s main gate and back, participants sensitized members of the campus community on the significance of International Men’s Day and the need for renewed attention to men’s health and wellness.

Following the walk, participants converged for a commemorative lecture delivered by Deputy Chief Medical Officer at the UNILAG Medical Centre, Dr. David Ikechukwu Ekwuaba. Speaking on the official theme for the 2025 celebration Navigating Pressure: A Man’s Well-Being in Modern Lagos, Dr. Ekwuaba highlighted the unique societal, psychological, and economic pressures confronting men today.

While emphasizing the urgent need to expand psychological support systems for men, Dr. Ekwuaba advocated for initiatives that:

Promote positive male role models.
Recognize and appreciate men’s contributions in all spheres.
Advance male health and general wellbeing
Foster healthier gender relations.
Uphold gender equality.
Eliminate discrimination directed at men.

The event also featured goodwill messages by the Convener of the initiative at UNILAG, Elder Adedini Oluropo; Mr. Oluwatobi Ikudaisi of the DSVA; the Chaplain of the Chapel of Christ Our Light, Rev. Azuka Ogbolumani; and Dr. Bashir, who represented the Chief Imam of the UNILAG Muslim Community. They congratulated men worldwide on the occasion and encouraged them to embrace the lessons embedded in this year’s theme.

The spiritual leaders, in particular, underscored the importance of men expressing themselves, communicating openly, and seeking confidants or professional help when necessary.