The Federal and subnational governments have been urged to intensify efforts in safeguarding children’s rights against bullying and other violations.
Eghosa Erhumwunse, the National Director of the SOS Children’s Village made the appeal in the wake of this year’s Children’s Day celebration.
DAILY POST reports that bullying has been identified as a significant problem in Nigerian schools, with studies indicating that up to 85% of students experience it.
Speaking during an event in Ijebu-East Local Government Area of Ogun State as part of children’s Day celebration, Erhumwunse said, government needs to redouble efforts in light of the current surge in child bullying nationwide.
He explained that the government, while providing access to quality education, must ensure that children are safe, protected, and not bullied at school.
Erhumwunse, represented by Chief Programme Officer, Ayodeji Adelopo, insisted that providing access to quality education is the primary duty of the government and a fundamental right of children.
He said, “ Education is a right, it’s a fundamental right of the children and the children in this community are not also left out.
“Like we know, the government is the primary duty bearer when it comes to providing access to quality education. One of the things that the government owe the children is to ensure they are able to access schools like these and also to ensure that while accessing education, they are safe and protected, they are not bullied and their rights are not violated.”
He also tasked community leaders and other pertinent stakeholders with bolstering the educational system and securing the future of future generations.
