President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the protection, development, and empowerment of every Nigerian child.
In his address to the nation on the occasion of this year’s Children’s Day celebration, Tinubu described Nigerian children as “the pride and future of our great nation,” emphasizing their role as the custodians of tomorrow’s promise, innovation, and leadership.
The president highlighted the importance of this year’s theme: “Stand up, speak up: Building a bullying-free generation.”
Tinubu, who was represented by the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, stated that violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in Nigeria.
The president announced the full implementation of the National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030).
He said this comprehensive roadmap is aimed at preventing abuse, prosecuting perpetrators, and supporting victims.
President Tinubu said: “The government is conducting a comprehensive review of the Child Rights Act, 2003, and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015, to expand protections, close implementation gaps, and ensure nationwide enforcement.
“The Cybercrime Act is also being leveraged to combat cyberbullying and online exploitation.
“The Child Protection Information Management System is being scaled up for real-time tracking and response to cases.
“The Ministry of Women’s Affairs is strengthening community-based mechanisms and leading nationwide awareness campaigns.”
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On education and inclusion, the president said a national policy on safety, security, and violence-free schools has been introduced, with guidelines for school administrators, social-emotional learning, and child safeguarding embedded in teachers training.
The president further stressed that the government is expanding access to primary healthcare, upscaling mother and child hospitals, and implementing the Nutrition 774 programme and school feeding scheme to ensure no child goes hungry and every child receives the nutrition needed to thrive.
The president assured children that their voices and dreams matter, while urging them to speak up if they are bullied or harmed, promising that they would be heard and protected.
The President commended states that have taken bold steps for children’s welfare and urged others to follow suit.
The high point of the event was the presentation of trophies to deserving schools that participated in a march past to commemorate the 2025 National Children’s Day celebration.