On this National Children’s Day, President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his commitment to ensuring the rights, dreams, and futures of every Nigerian child are protected.
In his address for the 2025 celebrations, Tinubu remarked, “You represent the most valuable segment of our national identity, the essence of our nation’s future, and the stewards of tomorrow’s promise, creativity, and leadership.”
He declared, “Today, I reaffirm our constitutional, moral, and intergenerational obligation to safeguard every Nigerian child, uphold their rights, and foster their dreams.”
The theme for this year, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” is particularly relevant, as it aligns with the cultural values Nigeria strives to nurture. “We aim to create an environment where every child feels secure, respected, and listened to, in both physical and digital realms. Violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in modern Nigeria,” he stated.
Globally, more than one in three children face bullying, with studies suggesting that up to 65% of Nigerian schoolchildren have experienced some form of aggression. “This is unacceptable. A child learning in fear cannot perform well, and one growing in fear cannot develop healthily.”
Tinubu underscored the focus on child protection within the Renewed Hope Agenda, which includes implementing Nigeria’s National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030). “This comprehensive roadmap is designed to prevent abuse, pursue justice for victims, and support those affected, backed by significant funding and inter-sectoral coordination.”
He detailed the government’s decisive measures to prevent, identify, and respond to violence against children, including a thorough review of the Child Rights Act (2003) and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015) to broaden protection and ensure nationwide adherence.
“Though 36 states have adopted the Child Rights Act, mere legislation is not enough. A holistic approach, involving parents, educators, caregivers, community leaders, lawmakers, and citizens, is vital,” he advised.
The government is also enhancing systems such as the Child Protection Information Management System (CPIMS) to effectively track and address cases in real-time, while strengthening community-based child protection efforts.
Aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda, the administration is dedicated to implementing proactive measures to bolster existing efforts aimed at supporting families and communities, creating a robust framework focused on child protection and development.
“This will ensure heightened accountability in safeguarding the rights and welfare of every Nigerian child,” the president affirmed.
He appealed to all partners, stakeholders, and duty-bearers to intensify collective efforts, asserting that child rights must be integrated into all budgets, plans, and policies. “Let this day signify a renewed commitment to establishing a Nigeria where no child endures silence, no child is neglected, and every child thrives in dignity, peace, and love,” he concluded.
