“We Must Raise a Bullying-Free Generation” — Tinubu Vows in Children’s Day Speech

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a national stance against bullying in schools, vowing to build a safer, more secure future for Nigerian children. This bold commitment was part of his 2025 National Children’s Day address, themed “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation.”

In a heartfelt message personally signed and delivered Tuesday morning, Tinubu described children as the “heartbeat of our nation’s future” and stressed that no child should ever grow up in fear. “A child who learns in fear cannot learn well; a child who grows in fear cannot grow right,” he said.

Citing studies that show over 65% of Nigerian school-age children have faced bullying, Tinubu warned that such hostile environments not only harm young minds but threaten national development. He announced fresh government initiatives under his Renewed Hope Agenda to protect children from abuse—physical, emotional, or digital.

These include the full implementation of the National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030), backed by dedicated funding and inter-agency coordination. The President also revealed a comprehensive review of the Child Rights Act (2003) and Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015) to expand protection and ensure full nationwide enforcement.

Additionally, Tinubu emphasized the growing risk of cyberbullying, noting that the Cybercrime Act is being actively leveraged to safeguard Nigerian children from online harm.

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, also joined in commemorating the day, calling children “true representatives of the promise of Nigeria’s future.” In her statement, she condemned bullying as a destructive force that leaves lasting emotional scars and called on parents, teachers, and community leaders to take an active role in fostering compassion and empathy.

“As a mother,” she said, “I call on all Nigerians to take an active stand against bullying. Let us teach our children that strength lies in compassion, and that true leadership begins with looking out for one another.”