President Bola Tinubu has strongly condemned the rising trend of bullying among children and pledged his administration’s full commitment to fostering a safer, more inclusive environment for every Nigerian child.
In a message commemorating Children’s Day 2025, President Tinubu aligned his remarks with the theme of this year’s celebration: “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation.” He described the theme as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to cultivate a society where every child is treated with respect, protected from harm, and empowered to speak up against abuse.
“A culture where every child feels safe, respected, and heard, both in physical spaces and digital communities,” the president said. “Just to be clear, violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in the Nigeria of today.”
The president cited alarming statistics showing that globally, over one in three children face bullying regularly, while in Nigeria, studies suggest that up to 65% of school-age children have endured some form of physical, psychological, or social aggression.
“This is unacceptable,” Tinubu said. “A child who learns in fear cannot learn well. A child who grows in fear cannot grow right.”
The President, highlighting steps already taken by the Federal Government, pointed to the recently launched National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030) as a strategic tool for confronting child abuse in all its forms.
“The plan provides a comprehensive roadmap to prevent abuse, prosecute perpetrators, and support victims, backed by robust financing and multi-sectoral coordination,” he explained.
The president also acknowledged progress made at the state level, noting that all 36 states have now domesticated the Child Rights Act, signaling a united national front to protect and prioritize child welfare.
However, he emphasized that legislation alone is not enough. “We require a holistic approach,” Tinubu urged. “Parents, teachers, caregivers, faith leaders, lawmakers, and citizens all have a role to play. It is time to embed child rights in our budgets, plans, and policies.”
Calling children the “heartbeat of our nation’s future,” Tinubu reaffirmed that they are the foundation of Nigeria’s long-term promise, innovation, and leadership. “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.”
He concluded by challenging all Nigerians to mark this year’s Children’s Day as the beginning of a new movement: “Let today mark a renewed movement to build a Nigeria where no child suffers in silence, no child is left behind, and every child grows in dignity, peace, and love.”
Children’s Day is celebrated annually in Nigeria on May 27 to promote the rights and welfare of children.
