Today, we join the global community in commemorating International Men’s Day 2024 under the theme, “Positive Male Role Models.” This day provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the contributions of men to society, while fostering meaningful discussions around their physical and mental health, the importance of positive role models, and the need for a more inclusive world.

As we reflect on this theme, I am inspired by the words of Barack Obama: “The measure of any society is how it treats its women and its girls. But equally, the strength of men lies in their ability to build, protect, and inspire.” we must remember that a positive male role model doesn’t just teach, he leads by example.

The Power of Positive Male Role Models

A true leadership inspires change, not through words alone but through actions that resonate across generations.

However, these statistics are a call to action:

• Men are less likely to seek medical or mental health support, leading to a global life expectancy gap of approximately five years between men and women. Additionally, the presence of positive male role models has been linked to reducing youth violence, promoting academic achievement, and fostering well-rounded communities.
• According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), men underutilize mental health resources, which can have long-term consequences on their well-being.
• Studies also reveal that young men with access to positive role models are 55% less likely to engage in high-risk behaviors, underscoring the importance of mentorship and guidance.¹

In the workplace, male role models who champion inclusivity, equality, and mental well-being help to foster diverse, healthy and productive environments. Positive male leadership can drive change by promoting a culture of respect, collaboration, and support for all employees, regardless of gender.

The Role of CIPM in Promoting Positive Male Role Models

 CIPM continues to advocate for leadership that transforms lives and workplaces. As HR professionals, we are tasked with nurturing environments where mentorship thrives and young men are guided by exemplary figures who inspire integrity, resilience, and progress.

As a professional Institute, we actively support initiatives that emphasise mental health, well-being, and personal development for all our members. CIPM’s focus on workplace wellness, leadership development, and professional ethics contributes to shaping the type of leaders who lead by example, encourage others, and uplift those around them.

Let us take this opportunity to reflect on the positive male role models who have shaped our lives, and consider how we, too, can take steps to inspire and positively impact others.

Our Call to Action

I encourage each of you to not only celebrate this day, but also to reflect on how you can contribute to building a future where positive male role models are celebrated and supported

Let us work together, as HR professionals, to create environments where mental health is prioritized, inclusivity is championed, and positive leadership is encouraged.

We celebrate each and every one of you – our remarkable male members – who have dedicated your time to representing the Institute with distinction in your organisations, families, and through your invaluable contributions to CIPM. Your passion and commitment are the driving force behind our collective success. We see you, we recognise you, and we deeply appreciate you. Keep being a positive role model!

Thank you for your continued commitment to advancing the field of People Management in Nigeria.

Long live CIPM!

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

CIPM…we deliver value through people.

Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, FCIPM

President and Chairman of the Governing CouncilChartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM)