President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a safer, more secure future for Nigerian children, while strongly condemning bullying in schools and other environments where children interact.
In a message delivered on Tuesday to mark the 2025 National Children’s Day, themed “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” President Tinubu stressed that no child should have to learn or grow in fear. He cited global statistics showing that over one in three children experience bullying, while in Nigeria, up to 65% of school-age children have faced physical, emotional, or social aggression.
“My dear children, the pride and future of our great nation, I celebrate this year’s Children’s Day with immense pride and profound joy,” the President wrote. “Let me reaffirm our commitment to nurturing and protecting you as Nigeria’s future leaders, innovators, and changemakers.”
Addressing children nationwide, Tinubu described them as the “heartbeat of the nation’s future,” and emphasized that they are central to the country’s progress and development.
The President highlighted several initiatives under his administration aimed at protecting children’s rights and well-being. These include the implementation of the National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030) — a framework designed to prevent abuse, prosecute offenders, and support survivors. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to review and strengthen existing laws such as the Child Rights Act (2003) and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015), with the goal of closing protection gaps and ensuring nationwide enforcement.
Tinubu further stated that the Cybercrime Act is being fully leveraged to combat online threats like cyberbullying and exploitation. “Violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in today’s Nigeria,” he declared.
In a similar message, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, extended her warmest wishes to children across the country, describing them as “true representatives of the promise of Nigeria’s future.”
Marking the international observance of Children’s Day, the First Lady echoed the call for a collective effort to end bullying. “Whether in schools, communities, or online, bullying leaves deep wounds that hinder a child’s emotional, social, and academic growth,” she said.
“As a mother, I call on all Nigerians to stand actively against bullying. Let us teach our children that real strength lies in kindness, and true leadership begins with caring for one another,” she added.
Both leaders reaffirmed their shared vision of a Nigeria where every child can thrive in safety, dignity, and hope.
