By Nafisat Makinde
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs marked the 2025 National Children’s Day with a powerful call to action for parents, governments, and institutions to prioritize the total wellbeing of children in Nigeria. The event, themed “Speak Up, Stand Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” brought together government officials, development partners, civil society organizations, educators, media, and school children at the Old Parade Ground, Area 10, Abuja.
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, emphasized that the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of every child must become a national priority. “Bullying is not just a school issue; it is a societal problem that breeds fear, isolation, anxiety, and even suicide. We must end it,” she declared. The Minister highlighted national and global efforts being championed by Nigeria, including the National Policy on Anti-Bullying and Nigeria’s commitments under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Minister announced notable initiatives, including the roll-out of National Guidelines on Alternative Care, review of the 2003 Child Rights Act, and development of a National Policy on Menstrual Health and Hygiene. “To our children—your voice matters. Speak up. Stand tall. Never be afraid to ask for help,” she urged.
Permanent Secretary Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro emphasized that building a bullying-free generation requires collective responsibility and values inculcated at home, in schools, and within communities. Quoting Nelson Mandela, she said, “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.”
The event is part of a larger celebration, with a special showcase at the State House Banquet Hall and commemoration of World Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28th, 2025.
