The Federal Ministry of Education has inaugurated a committee to draft a National Policy on Anti-Bullying in Nigerian schools and develop implementation guidelines to address the pervasive issue of bullying in educational institutions.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, who presided over the inauguration at the Ministry’s headquarters, described bullying as a widespread menace with detrimental effects on the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of students.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Abuja, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, highlighted the urgent need for action, citing alarming statistics that show bullying affects up to 85% of students in Nigerian schools.
“Bullying has remained a noxious issue in our schools, with detrimental effects on the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of our students,” the Minister stated.
He noted that bullying takes various forms, including physical violence, verbal abuse, social exclusion, and cyberbullying, and can involve students, teachers, and even school administrators.
The Minister expressed concern over the lack of awareness and reporting mechanisms, which he said perpetuate a culture of silence and leave victims without recourse.
“In many cases, bullying goes unchecked and unpunished, creating an environment where abuse thrives. This must end,” he said.
The newly inaugurated committee is tasked with drafting a comprehensive anti-bullying policy to address these challenges.
Among its terms of reference are reviewing existing laws and policies, consulting with stakeholders, and establishing mechanisms for reporting and addressing incidents of bullying.
Dr. Alausa emphasized the importance of collaboration in tackling the issue, urging schools, parents, and community leaders to join the fight.
“This is not just a government issue. It is a collective responsibility. We must all work together to create a safe and inclusive environment for our children,” he stated.
The Minister also outlined the committee’s deliverables, which include a draft policy, implementation guidelines, and a framework for monitoring and evaluating the policy’s effectiveness.
The committee is expected to complete its work within three weeks, after which the policy will be presented to stakeholders for validation.
The Minister called on the committee members to approach the task with dedication and innovation.
“I urge you all to bring your best ideas forward. Our goal is not just to create a document but to lay the foundation for a future where every Nigerian child feels safe in school,” he said.
The move has been welcomed by education stakeholders, who see it as a critical step in safeguarding students and improving the learning environment in Nigerian schools.
The policy, once finalized and implemented, is expected to address the root causes of bullying, provide support for victims, and hold perpetrators accountable, fostering a culture of respect and inclusion in schools across the country.
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