Federal Government Declares Bullying a National Crisis in Nigeria, Calls for Multi-Sectoral Response

Strategic Insights -

Bullying has become a national challenge in Nigeria, with the federal government declaring it a destructive force that undermines mental health, disrupts academic performance, and threatens the safety of learning environments. The government has called on all stakeholders, including parents, teachers, traditional and religious leaders, media, and the National Assembly, to join forces in addressing the menace. A summit organized by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement brought together experts and stakeholders to brainstorm on prevention, awareness, and solutions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The federal government has condemned bullying, especially among students, which can lead to death, withdrawal from school, anxiety, and other psychological effects.
  • The Federal Ministry of Education has launched a national anti-bullying policy and set up a taskforce for enforcement.
  • The prevalence of bullying in Nigerian institutions is estimated to be 21-82%, with physical bullying being the most common, affecting almost 62% of students.
  • The Minister of Youth Development called on the National Assembly to enact a law that would support the fight against bullying in the country.
  • Parents, teachers, traditional and religious leaders, media, and other stakeholders are involved in a multi-sectoral approach to address bullying in schools and society.
  • The summit was organized to brainstorm on prevention, awareness, and solutions, with experts and stakeholders gathering to address the national challenge.

Statistics:

  • 21-82% of Nigerian students experience bullying in institutions.
  • 62% of students experience physical bullying, which includes physical harm, such as hitting, kicking, pushing, or damaging property.
  • Hundreds of students from secondary schools and tertiary institutions participated in the summit.

Sources:

  • "Federal Government Declares Bullying a Killer of Dreams, Calls on Stakeholders to Kick It Out," ThisDay Newspaper (Thursday/[no date given]).
  • "Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, Urges National Assembly to Enact Law Against Bullying," Vanguard News (Thursday/[no date given]).
  • "Nigeria: Bullying in Our Schools is a National Crisis, Says Expert," ThisDay Newspaper (Thursday/[no date given]).
  • "Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, Sunday Asefon, Organises National Stakeholders Summit on Bullying Prevention and Support," Vanguard News (Thursday/[no date given]).