By George Ozalla
Stakeholders from various sectors converged at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja last Thursday to tackle the pervasive issue of bullying in Nigerian schools. The National Stakeholders Summit, themed “Unite Against Bullying: A Multi-Stakeholder Approach to Legislative and Social Change,” aimed to produce policy-driven solutions to address bullying.
Hon. Comrade Sunday Asefon, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Student Engagement, emphasized the need for a bullying-free generation, highlighting the devastating effects of bullying on mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being.
Asefon urged stakeholders to champion a cultural shift in Nigerian schools, prioritizing empathy and safety as fundamental values. “Behind every statistic is a child who deserves to feel safe, respected, and heard,” he said. “Our impact must be measured by the lives we protect, the voices we amplify, and the tears we prevent.”
Eno-obong Favour Hensaw, the Executive Director of United Women Voice International Foundation (UWVIF), stated that, “we aim to take this message to the grassroots, schools, and train teachers to recognize and address bullying in all its forms, including physical, verbal, and cyberbullying.”
The summit with theme: Unite Against Bullying; A Multi-stakeholder Approach to Legislative and Social Change was attended by educators, policymakers, mental health professionals, legal experts, parents, technology leaders, and students, marks the beginning of a national movement to protect children and reform the education system.
Bullying has severe and long-lasting effects on young people, including emotional trauma, decreased academic performance, and increased risk of mental health problems. Statistics show that over 1 in 3 children globally experience bullying, while in Nigeria, up to 65% of school-age children have faced some form of aggression.
The National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024-2030) provides a comprehensive strategy to prevent abuse, prosecute offenders, and support victims. By working together, stakeholders can create a safe and supportive learning environment that promotes the well-being and success of all students.
