The Nigerian government has announced plans to implement a comprehensive national policy to address bullying in schools, aiming to foster discipline and improve the educational sector and society at large.
Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, made this known during an interactive session with Federal Unity College principals in Abuja. He stated that the policy document, classified as an urgent initiative, would be presented for ratification by the National Council on Education between January and February 2025.
Highlighting the psychological, emotional, and academic harm caused by bullying, the Minister emphasized the zero-tolerance stance of the Ministry and the Bola Tinubu-led administration. “We are working in collaboration with the Attorney General’s office to develop a national framework that integrates existing laws like the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and the Safe School Act,” Alausa said.
The proposed policy will enforce accountability for principals, teachers, and parents who enable or ignore cases of bullying. Beyond punitive measures, the Ministry plans to focus on advocacy, counseling, and sensitization campaigns for parents, teachers, and students.
Additionally, efforts will be made to restructure School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs) to ensure a unified, nationwide approach. The Minister underlined the importance of collaboration with sub-national governments to achieve a streamlined strategy for discipline in schools.
At the meeting, Alausa stressed the role of principals in nurturing a disciplined and value-driven education system while also reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing skills acquisition for school leavers to boost employability and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Suwaiba Ahmad, Minister of State for Education, highlighted the government’s dedication to teacher welfare, citing provisions in the National Teachers Policy aimed at improving incentives and salaries. “This administration prioritizes education and will ensure the full implementation of the policy nationwide,” she added.
The initiative comes amid rising concerns over bullying cases in schools, reinforcing the government’s resolve to protect students and foster a healthier learning environment.
