President Bola Tinubu has issued a strong directive against bullying in Nigerian schools, declaring the practice "unacceptable" during his address commemorating the 2025 National Children's Day on Tuesday.

In his personally penned message to Nigerian children, Tinubu emphasized that "a child who learns in fear cannot learn well and a child who grows in fear cannot grow right," highlighting the detrimental effects of bullying on child development.

The President revealed alarming statistics showing that globally, more than one in three children experience bullying regularly. The situation in Nigeria is even more concerning, with studies estimating that up to 65% of school-age children have experienced some form of physical, psychological, or social aggression.

This year's Children's Day theme, "Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation," aligns with the administration's vision of creating safe environments for Nigerian children both in physical spaces and digital communities.

"My Dear Children, the pride and future of our great nation, I join you to celebrate the 2025 National Children's Day with immense pride and profound joy. On this special day, let me reaffirm our commitment to nurturing and protecting you as Nigeria's future leaders, innovators, and changemakers," Tinubu stated.

Child Protection Initiatives Under Renewed Hope Agenda

The President outlined several policy initiatives his administration has implemented to protect Nigerian children, including the full implementation of Nigeria's National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030), which he recently launched.

"The plan provides a comprehensive roadmap to prevent abuse, prosecute perpetrators, and support victims, backed by robust financing and multi-sectoral coordination," Tinubu explained.

Additionally, the government has initiated a comprehensive review of the Child Rights Act (2003) and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015) to strengthen protective measures, close implementation gaps, and ensure nationwide enforcement.

Tinubu also highlighted the government's efforts to leverage the Cybercrime Act to protect children from cyberbullying, exploitation, and abuse in digital spaces.

"Just to be clear, violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in the Nigeria of today," the President emphasized, reaffirming his administration's constitutional, moral, and intergenerational duty to safeguard every Nigerian child, protect their rights, and nurture their dreams.

The President described Nigerian children as "the most precious part of our national fabric, the heartbeat of our nation's future, and the custodians of tomorrow's promise, innovation, and leadership."