Children’s Day 2025: Tinubu denounces bullying, vows safer, brighter future for Nigerian children

In a statement released today to mark the 2025 Children’s Day celebration, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of this year’s theme: “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation.”

He described it as a timely call to action for cultivating a culture where children are protected, respected, and empowered to speak out—whether in schools, communities, or online.

“Let it be clear—violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in today’s Nigeria,” the President declared.

He cited alarming statistics, noting that globally over one in three children regularly experience bullying, with studies indicating that up to 65% of school-aged children in Nigeria have suffered physical, emotional, or social abuse.

“This is unacceptable,” he stated. “Fearful children cannot thrive. A child who learns in fear cannot learn properly; a child who grows in fear cannot grow well.”

Tinubu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting children, who he described as “the heartbeat of our nation’s future and the guardians of tomorrow’s leadership and innovation.” He highlighted key initiatives, including the National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030), which he recently unveiled.

This plan outlines strategies to prevent abuse, hold perpetrators accountable, and support affected children. It is backed by dedicated funding and coordinated efforts across sectors.

The President also noted that all 36 states have now domesticated the Child Rights Act, a significant milestone in the nation’s effort to uphold children’s rights.

However, he stressed that legislation alone is not enough: “We need a comprehensive approach—parents, teachers, religious leaders, lawmakers, and all citizens must work together.”

He urged government bodies and stakeholders to prioritize child welfare in their policies and budgets. “Our children are not just numbers—they are the essence of our nation,” Tinubu said. “Let this Children’s Day signal a new beginning: one where no child is silenced, no child is left behind, and every child is nurtured in dignity, peace, and love.”