The Federal Government and state authorities have been called upon to strengthen measures protecting Nigerian children from bullying and other rights violations in schools across the country.

The appeal was made by Eghosa Erhumwunse, National Director of SOS Children's Village, following this year's Children's Day celebration, amid alarming statistics showing that up to 85% of Nigerian students experience bullying in schools.

Speaking at an event in Ijebu-East Local Government Area of Ogun State, Erhumwunse emphasized the need for government intervention in light of the current surge in child bullying nationwide.

"Education is a right, it's a fundamental right of the children and the children in this community are not also left out," said Erhumwunse, who was represented by Chief Programme Officer, Ayodeji Adelopo.

"Like we know, the government is the primary duty bearer when it comes to providing access to quality education. One of the things that the government owe the children is to ensure they are able to access schools like these and also to ensure that while accessing education, they are safe and protected, they are not bullied and their rights are not violated."

Safe Learning Environments Essential

The SOS Children's Village director highlighted that while providing access to quality education remains a government responsibility, ensuring children's safety and protection from bullying within educational institutions is equally crucial.

Erhumwunse also called on community leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen the educational system and secure the future of coming generations, emphasizing collective responsibility in addressing the bullying crisis.

The appeal comes at a critical time when child protection advocates are increasingly concerned about the psychological and physical impacts of bullying on Nigerian schoolchildren, with studies indicating the problem has reached epidemic proportions in educational institutions nationwide.