As part of its Father’s Week appreciation initiative, the Life After Abuse Foundation (LAAF), has honoured 42 distinguished fathers, leaders, and allies whose supports have strengthened its mission throughout the year.
Its Founder and Executive Director, Halima Layeni, made this known in a statement to commemorate the 2026 Father’s Day on Sunday in Lagos.
The Day is celebrated on third Sunday in June to honour the role fathers play in the family structure and society.
LAAF is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to providing free psychosocial support, counseling, and advocacy for boys and men affected by abuse and trauma.
Through policy engagement, public education, and direct support services, LAAF works to dismantle the silence surrounding male victimisation and to build a more gender-inclusive approach to healing.
According to her, the Foundation recognises fathers for their guidance, partnership, and commitment to advancing men’s mental health, policy reform, and male survivor advocacy.
She listed the 42 honorees to include the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; the Founding Senior Pastor, Fountain of Life Church, Taiwo Odukoya; the Executive Chairman, Sinbol Group and Board Chair, LAAF, Bolade Daranijo.
Others she mentioned included the Executive Manager, International Council for Men and Boy, Larry DeMarco; the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende and the President, Voice of Men 360, Sivam Valeutham.
She added that Dr Chinonso Fidelis, a Health Influencer and Founder, Healthy Brands and 100K Club, popularly known as “Aproko Doctor” and the Convener, Man2Man Series, George Ikoli-Spiff, were among the honorees.
“As we reflect on the power of positive male influence, we recognise these remarkable men who have used their voices, platforms, resources, and leadership to champion conversations around emotional wellbeing, healthy masculinity, family values, and social transformation.
“Their contributions represent more than support for an organisation, they represent a commitment to building a world where individuals, especially boys and men, have access to healing, dignity, support, and opportunities to thrive.
“These men have shown up for our work in ways that go far beyond a title. Their belief in this mission, and their willingness to stand publicly for boys and men who have suffered in silence, is the reason we have been able to grow our reach and impact.
“We honour them not just as supporters, but as fathers in every sense of the word,” Layeni said.
Layeni said the Foundation acknowledged that progress in mental health advocacy and abuse prevention required collective action.
According to her, these fathers of impact demonstrate the importance of men actively participating in creating safer homes, stronger families, and healthier communities.
She extended the foundation’s deepest appreciation to every individual recognised.
Layeni stated that their support have helped amplified the message that seeking help was a sign of strength, healing was possible, and every person deserves compassion and support.
“Your commitment continues to inspire a generation and contributes to a future where conversations around male abuse, trauma, and mental health are met with understanding rather than silence,” she said.
