President Bola Tinubu has promised to protect Nigerian children from bullying and violence while calling for a safer and more supportive environment for every child across the country.
In his message for the 2025 Children’s Day celebration on Tuesday, May 27, Tinubu said the theme of this year’s event — *“Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation”* — reminds everyone of the need to respect and listen to children.
“A culture where every child feels safe, respected, and heard, both in physical spaces and digital communities. Just to be clear, violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in the Nigeria of today,” the president stated.
He described bullying as a serious issue, citing global reports that show more than one in three children face bullying regularly. He added that in Nigeria, research shows about 65% of school-age children have experienced bullying or aggression.
“This is unacceptable. A child who learns in fear cannot learn well. A child who grows in fear cannot grow right,” Tinubu said.
The president also described children as “the heartbeat of our nation’s future, and the custodians of tomorrow’s promise, innovation, and leadership.”
He listed some steps his government is taking to protect children. These include the full implementation of the *National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030)*, which he launched earlier this year.
According to him, the plan will help prevent abuse, punish offenders, and support victims — with proper funding and cooperation from different sectors.
Tinubu was glad to note that all 36 states in Nigeria have adopted the Child Rights Act. But he said laws alone are not enough.
“We require a holistic approach where parents, teachers, caregivers, faith leaders, lawmakers, and citizens must take ownership,” he said.
The president encouraged leaders and stakeholders across the country to include children’s rights in their plans, budgets, and policies.
“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. 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.”
