Foundation Celebrates Male Advocates Driving Healing & Social Change
Life After Abuse Foundation recognises fathers, public leaders and advocates whose contributions have advanced mental health awareness, male survivor support and family wellbeing.
AS communities across Nigeria marked Father’s Day 2026, the Life After Abuse Foundation (LAAF) used the occasion to spotlight the role of fathers and male advocates in promoting emotional wellbeing, social responsibility and support for vulnerable groups.
The organisation honoured 42 distinguished individuals whose contributions have strengthened efforts to address abuse, trauma and mental health challenges affecting boys and men, describing them as key partners in advancing a more inclusive culture of healing and support.
Recognising Positive Male Influence
Founder and Executive Director of LAAF, Halima Layeni, said the recognition formed part of the foundation’s Father’s Week appreciation initiative, designed to celebrate men who have used their influence, resources and leadership to create positive change in society.
According to her, the honourees have played significant roles in supporting conversations around healthy masculinity, family values, emotional wellbeing and social transformation.
Layeni noted that fatherhood extends beyond biological relationships and includes mentorship, guidance and the willingness to stand up for vulnerable members of society.
She said the award recipients had demonstrated a commitment to ensuring that boys and men facing trauma, abuse or emotional difficulties receive the support and understanding they deserve.
Advancing the Cause of Male Mental Health
LAAF, a non-profit organisation focused on psychosocial support, counselling and advocacy for male survivors of abuse and trauma, has increasingly drawn attention to issues often overlooked in public discourse.
The foundation argues that societal expectations frequently discourage men from discussing emotional struggles, creating barriers to healing and support.
Layeni said the honourees have helped challenge these stereotypes by openly supporting initiatives aimed at improving men’s mental health and wellbeing.
She stressed that addressing abuse and trauma among men requires sustained advocacy, policy engagement and public education.
“Progress in mental health advocacy and abuse prevention requires collective action,” she stated, adding that the recognised individuals have contributed significantly to expanding awareness and encouraging help-seeking behaviour.
High-Profile Honourees
Among those recognised were Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; founder of the Fountain of Life Church, Taiwo Odukoya; and Executive Chairman of Sinbol Group and Chairman of LAAF’s Board, Bolade Daranijo.
Others honoured included international men’s rights advocate Larry DeMarco, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development Mobolaji Ogunlende and Voice of Men 360 President Sivam Valeutham.
Health influencer Chinonso Fidelis and Man2Man Series Convener George Ikoli-Spiff were also recognised for their contributions.
Building Stronger Families and Communities
Layeni emphasised that fathers and male role models play a critical role in shaping healthier families and safer communities.
According to her, men who actively participate in conversations about emotional wellbeing and family development contribute to stronger social structures and better outcomes for future generations.
She noted that the foundation’s work seeks to dismantle the stigma surrounding male victimisation while promoting compassion and access to support services.
A Call for Continued Advocacy
As Father’s Day celebrations concluded, LAAF urged stakeholders across government, civil society and the private sector to continue supporting initiatives that prioritise mental health, family stability and abuse prevention.
The foundation maintained that creating a society where boys and men can openly seek help without fear of judgment remains essential to achieving lasting social progress.
Layeni said the contributions of the honoured fathers and advocates serve as an example of how leadership, empathy and community engagement can help build a more supportive and inclusive future.
