President Bola Tinubu has strongly condemned child bullying, pledging to foster a safer and more inclusive environment for Nigeria’s children. In a statement marking the 2025 Children’s Day celebration, themed “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” the president emphasized the urgent need to cultivate a culture where every child feels safe, respected, and heard.
“Violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in today’s Nigeria,” Tinubu declared, highlighting the alarming prevalence of bullying. He cited global statistics showing over one in three children face bullying regularly, with Nigerian studies indicating up to 65% of school-age children experience physical, psychological, or social aggression. “A child who learns in fear cannot learn well. A child who grows in fear cannot grow right,” he added.
Tinubu outlined ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and states to protect children, whom he described as “the heartbeat of our nation’s future.” Key initiatives include the recent launch of Nigeria’s National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030), which provides a roadmap to prevent abuse, prosecute offenders, and support victims through robust financing and multi-sectoral coordination.
The president noted that all 36 states have domesticated the Child Rights Act, signaling a collective commitment to child welfare. However, he stressed that laws alone are insufficient, urging a holistic approach involving parents, teachers, caregivers, faith leaders, lawmakers, and citizens. Tinubu called for child rights to be prioritized in budgets, policies, and plans nationwide.
“I commend states taking bold steps for our children’s welfare and urge those yet to act: now is the time,” he said. “Our children are not just statistics—they are the heart of our nation.”
President Tinubu concluded by rallying Nigerians to build a nation where no child suffers in silence, ensuring every child grows in dignity, peace, and love.
