…Launches nationwide campaign, unveils sweeping reforms on Children’s Day
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged a renewed national commitment to ending child abuse and bullying, describing Nigerian children as the “pride and future” of the nation in a heartfelt address marking the 2025 International Children’s Day.
With an alarming 65% of school-age children reportedly facing bullying in one form or another, Tinubu in a speech to mark the 2025 Children’s Day Celebrations, called for an urgent cultural and policy shift. “Violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in the Nigeria of today,” he declared, urging citizens and institutions to embrace this year’s theme: “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation.”
The President in his speech outlined a robust package of reforms and initiatives designed to tackle systemic violence against children, enhance their welfare, and secure a brighter, safer future for Nigeria’s next generation.
Bold Reforms to Back Bold Words
Under his Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu announced a nationwide review of the Child Rights Act (2003) and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015), expanding the scope of child protection and tightening implementation gaps. He also committed to enforcing the Cybercrime Act to combat digital threats like cyberbullying and online abuse.
“Children who live or learn in fear cannot grow right,” Tinubu said, highlighting how chronic abuse damages learning outcomes and national development.
Ground-Level Protection Mechanisms
The President revealed ongoing efforts to scale up the Child Protection Information Management System (CPIMS), which enables real-time tracking and intervention in abuse cases. The Ministry of Women’s Affairs, he added, is enhancing community-based protection, training first responders, and running awareness campaigns to challenge harmful traditional practices.
Tinubu also launched a new national campaign—“See Something, Say Something, Do Something”—to encourage citizens to act as watchdogs for vulnerable children.
Nutrition and Health Take Center Stage
Health and nutrition were central to Tinubu’s speech. He announced the expansion of Mother and Child Hospitals across all geopolitical zones and a newly established Department of Nutrition within the Ministry of Women’s Affairs. Through initiatives like the Nutrition 774 programme and the School Feeding Scheme, Tinubu pledged to fight hunger and boost cognitive development.
“A well-nourished child is better equipped to chase dreams and succeed,” he said.
Every Child, Every State
Acknowledging progress, the President commended the 36 states that have domesticated the Child Rights Act, but urged full enforcement and community buy-in. “Laws alone are not enough. Protection must be a national reflex—parents, faith leaders, teachers, and neighbours all have a role to play,” he said.
He also hinted at the development of a Universal Child Grant and a Child Wellbeing Index to track and improve policy effectiveness nationwide.
A Personal Appeal to Nigeria’s Children
Tinubu in his conclusion addressed the children directly:
“Your dreams matter. Your voices matter. If you are bullied or harmed, speak up—you will be heard and protected.”
He ended with a stirring call to action:
“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.”
