As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate the 2025 International Children’s Day, President Bola Tinubu has restated his administration’s unwavering dedication to protecting the rights and aspirations of every Nigerian child.
In a message addressed to children nationwide on Tuesday, President Tinubu described them as the pride and the future of the nation.
He emphasized the moral and constitutional responsibility of the government to ensure their safety, development, and well-being.
“Children represent the most valuable part of our society, the heartbeat of Nigeria’s future, and the foundation of tomorrow’s progress, creativity, and leadership,” the President remarked.
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” received the President’s endorsement as a timely reminder of the importance of creating environments where children feel secure, respected, and heard—both online and offline.
He condemned all forms of violence and bullying, citing alarming global and local statistics, including data showing that as many as 65% of Nigerian schoolchildren have experienced some form of bullying or aggression.
“A fearful child cannot learn properly, and one who grows up in fear is hindered from thriving,” Tinubu warned.
As part of efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the President highlighted several key initiatives aimed at addressing these concerns.
These include the National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030), ongoing reviews of the Child Rights Act of 2003 and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act of 2015, and the robust implementation of the Cybercrime Act to tackle online abuse.
He also introduced a public awareness campaign titled “See Something, Say Something, Do Something,” urging all Nigerians to play active roles in protecting children.
“Protecting our children goes beyond legislation. It requires collective responsibility from parents, teachers, caregivers, religious leaders, lawmakers, and the entire society,” he noted.
While acknowledging that all 36 states have domesticated the Child Rights Act, Tinubu emphasized the need for concrete action to complement legal reforms.
The President pointed to additional interventions such as the Child Protection Information Management System (CPIMS), grassroots child safety initiatives, nationwide campaigns to eliminate harmful cultural practices, and the training of frontline child protection personnel.
He also announced the creation of a Department of Nutrition within the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, the expansion of Mother and Child Hospitals across all regions, and the introduction of a National Policy on School Safety and Violence Prevention.
Tinubu reaffirmed support for the National School Feeding Programme, the “Nutrition 774” initiative, and plans to launch a National Child Wellbeing Index to monitor outcomes and ensure accountability.
Speaking directly to Nigerian children, he said: “You are important. Your dreams are valid. Your voices matter. No one has the right to harm or silence you. If you are in danger or being bullied, speak up. Help will come.”
He called on all stakeholders to prioritize child rights in planning and budgeting, urging the nation to commit to a future where no child is neglected, and every child can thrive in peace, dignity, and love.
In closing, the President shared a message of optimism: “Happy Children’s Day to all our young ones. May your laughter and joy be the true sound of Renewed Hope and the bright promise of our future.”
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