The Federal Government has unveiled plans to introduce a national policy aimed at curbing bullying in schools across Nigeria. This initiative comes in response to numerous viral incidents that have sparked public outrage among parents and citizens.
Speaking on Wednesday, December 11, after a meeting with principals of Federal Government Unity Colleges in Abuja, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance stance on bullying. He disclosed that the policy would be finalized during the next National Council on Education meeting.
“We will not tolerate or accept bullying in any of our schools or society,” Dr. Alausa declared. “We are formalizing a policy that will be presented to the highest policy-making organ in the country.”
To complement the policy, the government plans to launch a nationwide sensitization program targeting students, teachers, and parents. The campaign will highlight the dangers of bullying and violence while promoting a culture of kindness, respect, and inclusion in schools.
Dr. Alausa also stressed the need to strengthen existing school policies, including the mandatory implementation of strict anti-bullying measures, enforcement of disciplinary actions, and the establishment of functional guidance and counseling units in all secondary schools.
“We’ve engaged the Solicitor General to educate school principals on the current legal framework addressing bullying. This underscores our commitment to making schools safe spaces for every child,” he added.
The minister revealed that the policy would build upon the Safe Schools Act and other existing regulations. He noted that the Federal Ministry of Education is collaborating with the Attorney General’s office to draft the policy, which will be presented for adoption by the National Council on Education.
Dr. Alausa assured that state governments would play an active role in implementing the policy nationwide. He highlighted ongoing efforts by the ministry to instill discipline in schools and ensure that no child suffers from bullying or related forms of violence.
