Nigeria Cracks Down on School Bullies, Threatens Suspension, Expulsion

Nigeria's federal government is escalating its efforts to combat bullying in schools, announcing that students found guilty of intimidating or abusing their peers will face significant disciplinary actions. These measures include suspension, expulsion, and public naming of offenders.

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No student wants to be suspended. No student wants to be expelled. When students are publicly identified for bullying, it affects them psychologically and also impacts their parents and guardians. These are measures intended to discourage such behaviour.

The Federal Ministry of Education, in partnership with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), organized a workshop in Abuja to promote the National Policy on Anti-Bullying. The event, themed "Sensitisation Workshop for Students and Teachers on the National Policy on Anti-Bullying and the Effects of Bullying," gathered students and teachers from the Federal Capital Territory.

UBEC Deputy Executive Secretary, Hon. Razak Olajuwon, stated that the campaign aligns with the Tinubu administration's commitment to eradicating bullying and ensuring safe, inclusive learning environments. He highlighted the psychological, emotional, and academic harm caused by bullying, asserting that the government will no longer tolerate the issue. School authorities are now empowered to enforce the policy, with "name and shame" tactics among the deterrents.

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If you see something, say something. Remaining silent when another student is being bullied only worsens the situation. Bullying affects victims mentally, psychologically and ultimately undermines their academic performance.

Olajuwon urged students to break the silence surrounding bullying, emphasizing that reporting incidents is crucial. "If you see something, say something," he advised, noting that inaction exacerbates the problem and negatively impacts victims' academic performance. He also mentioned that intensified awareness campaigns have already contributed to a reduction in reported cases, with the government focused on strengthening prevention and accountability.

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We are saying no to bullying. It is against our educational values, our system and everything we stand for. We cannot build a strong educational system where bullying is allowed to thrive.