President Bola Tinubu has strongly condemned the rising cases of child bullying in Nigeria, pledging decisive action to create a safer, more nurturing environment for the nation’s children.
In his official message marking the 2025 Children’s Day celebration, President Tinubu described this year’s theme—“Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation”—as a powerful call to action for building a society where every child is respected, protected, and empowered.
“A child who learns in fear cannot learn well. A child who grows in fear cannot grow right,” Tinubu stated in a press release issued on Tuesday.
“Violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in the Nigeria of today—not in our homes, our schools, nor online.”
The president cited alarming statistics to underscore the urgency of the issue, noting that more than one in three children globally experience bullying regularly, with studies estimating that up to 65% of Nigerian school-age children have endured physical, psychological, or social abuse.
“These figures are unacceptable,” Tinubu said. “Our children must be able to grow in environments that nurture their potential—not stifle it.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to child welfare, the president highlighted the recently launched National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030), which lays out a clear framework for prevention, accountability, victim support, and multi-sectoral coordination.
He commended the progress made so far, noting that all 36 states have now domesticated the Child Rights Act, a major step toward safeguarding children’s rights nationwide.
However, Tinubu emphasized that legislation alone is not enough.
“We need a holistic approach—where parents, teachers, faith leaders, lawmakers, caregivers, and indeed all Nigerians take ownership of our children’s safety and well-being.”
Calling on stakeholders across sectors to embed child protection in their budgets, policies, and programs, the president praised states taking proactive steps and urged others to follow suit.
“Our children are not just numbers or future leaders—they are the heart of our nation,” Tinubu said. “Let this Children’s Day mark a renewed commitment to a Nigeria where no child suffers in silence, where no child is left behind, and where every child grows up in dignity, peace, and love.”
