As Nigeria celebrates the 2025 International Children’s Day, President Bola Tinubu has restated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian child is safe, heard, and given the opportunity to thrive.
In a heartfelt message to the nation’s children on Tuesday, Tinubu praised them as the “pride and promise” of the country, highlighting the government’s responsibility to safeguard their rights and well-being.
He said, “Our children are the lifeblood of this nation’s future. They are the ones who will carry the torch of innovation, leadership, and hope.”
Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” the President noted the urgent need to create environments—both in schools and online—where children feel protected and respected.
“Bullying, violence, and neglect must have no place in today’s Nigeria,” he said, citing troubling statistics that show widespread bullying among school-aged children. “A fearful child cannot learn or grow properly,” he added.
President Tinubu outlined several steps the government is taking under his Renewed Hope Agenda to address these challenges.
These include the rollout of the National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030), updating key legislation such as the Child Rights Act and the Violence Against Persons Act, and enforcing laws against cyberbullying.
He also launched a new advocacy drive—“See Something, Say Something, Do Something”—urging Nigerians to take an active role in protecting children in their communities.
“Laws alone aren’t enough. Everyone—parents, educators, community leaders, lawmakers—must come together to ensure our children are safe and supported,” Tinubu stressed.
He pointed out that although all 36 states have adopted the Child Rights Act, more must be done to bring these laws to life through practical action.
Other government efforts include the implementation of the Child Protection Information Management System (CPIMS), local child protection networks, education campaigns to combat harmful traditional practices, and training programs for those working directly with children.
In addition, Tinubu announced the establishment of a dedicated Nutrition Department within the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, the expansion of specialized hospitals for mothers and children across the country, and a new policy aimed at ensuring schools are safe and free from violence.
He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to existing programs like the School Feeding Scheme and the “Nutrition 774” project, as well as the introduction of a National Child Wellbeing Index to track progress and accountability.
Directly addressing children, Tinubu said, “You are important. Your dreams and voices count. If you are in trouble or being mistreated, speak up—your country stands with you.”
He called on stakeholders to integrate child rights into every plan and policy, urging Nigerians to work toward a future where no child suffers in silence or is left behind.
Concluding his message, the President said, “Happy Children’s Day to all our young ones. May your joy and laughter light up the path to a brighter, more hopeful Nigeria.”
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