… Launches anti-bullying campaign

BY CAROLINE AMEH

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s firm commitment to the protection and development of Nigerian children, describing them as the pride and future of the nation.

In a message to mark the 2025 National Children’s Day, President Tinubu expressed joy in celebrating children across the country and underscored ongoing government efforts to uphold their rights and ensure their wellbeing.

“On this special day, I reaffirm our commitment to nurturing and protecting you as Nigeria’s future leaders, innovators, and change-makers,” he stated.

This year’s theme, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation”, was described by the President as both timely and in line with national values.

Citing global and domestic data, Tinubu expressed concern over the prevalence of bullying. He noted that over one-third of children worldwide experience regular bullying, with studies showing that up to 65% of school-aged children in Nigeria have suffered physical, psychological, or social aggression.

“This is unacceptable,” he said. “A child who learns in fear cannot learn effectively. A child who grows up in fear cannot develop properly.”

Under his Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu outlined several initiatives to better protect children. 

He referenced the recently launched National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030), which provides a comprehensive framework for prevention, legal enforcement, and victim support.

He also pointed to the ongoing review of the Child Rights Act (2003) and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015), aimed at strengthening legal protections and addressing enforcement gaps. 

The President further stressed the importance of the Cybercrime Act in tackling cyberbullying and online abuse.

He noted with satisfaction that all 36 states have now domesticated the Child Rights Act, a significant milestone reflecting collective national resolve. However, he warned that legislation alone is not sufficient.

“A holistic approach is essential,” he said. “Parents, teachers, caregivers, faith leaders, lawmakers, and all citizens must play their part.”

President Tinubu also announced the government’s efforts to scale up the Child Protection Information Management System (CPIMS), which enables real-time tracking and response to child protection cases. 

He said the Ministry of Women’s Affairs is intensifying training for frontline responders and leading national awareness campaigns to combat harmful practices.

In line with this, he said plans are underway to establish a stronger institutional framework dedicated to child protection and development, aimed at ensuring greater coordination and accountability.

Additional measures include a National Policy on Safety, Security, and Violence-Free Schools, safeguarding guidelines for school administrators, integration of social-emotional learning in teacher training, and targeted programmes for Almajiri and out-of-school children under a newly created national commission.

On healthcare, Tinubu mentioned the expansion of Mother and Child Hospitals across all six geopolitical zones and collaboration with state governments to develop similar facilities. 

He also referenced the newly introduced National Guidelines for Alternative Care for Children, which provide support for children without parental care.

He reaffirmed that child nutrition remains a key priority. He highlighted the Nutrition 774 initiative and the School Feeding Scheme as efforts to boost child health and cognitive development nationwide.

“A well-nourished child is equipped and ready to take on the future,” he said.

To support this, the Federal Ministry of Women’s Affairs has established a Department of Nutrition to better coordinate child and maternal nutrition policies.

In the realm of social protection, the government is rolling out the Universal Child Grant and finalising a National Child Wellbeing Index to help monitor progress and improve accountability.

As part of a new civic engagement effort, Tinubu launched a national campaign titled “See Something, Say Something, Do Something,” encouraging Nigerians to take an active role in reporting abuse and supporting child safety.

“To our beloved children: you matter. Your dreams matter. Your voices matter,” he said. “If you are bullied or harmed, speak up—you will be heard and protected.”

President Tinubu concluded his message with a call for stakeholders to integrate child rights into national planning and budgeting.

“Let today be the beginning of a renewed movement—to build 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.”

He congratulated children across the country and expressed hope for a future filled with opportunity and happiness.

“May your laughter echo across this land as a symbol of Renewed Hope and a prosperous future.”