Amidst the increase in number of bullying cases across primary and secondary schools nationwide, the Federal Ministry of Education on Wednesday announced plans to launch a platform where whistleblowers can report cases of bullying anonymously.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, made this known during a press briefing in Abuja.
Alausa who expressed deep concern over the rising cases of bullying, violence, and other vices in secondary schools across the country emphasised the devastating impact of these issues on students’ academic performance, mental health, and moral values.
The minister highlighted the alarming consequences of bullying and violence, including declining academic performance, mental health challenges, dropouts, and erosion of moral values.
Cases of bullying have been reported across some of the nation’s unity and private schools in recent times with a prominent student, Sylvester Oromoni who was bullied in a Lagos-based private school losing his life.
In November 2024, 13 students of the Federal Government College, Enugu were suspended for bullying one of their colleagues.
“To address these challenges, the Federal Ministry of Education has launched several initiatives, including a National Campaign Against School Violence, which aims to educate students, teachers, and parents on the dangers of bullying and violence,” the minister noted.
Speaking further on the other measures to be introduced by the government, the minister said, “We are partnering with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to curb cultism and other criminal activities in schools. A dedicated helpline and online platform will be established to allow students and parents to report cases of bullying and violence anonymously.”
Alausa called on all stakeholders, including parents, teachers, students, and the media, to join forces in creating a safe and conducive learning environment. He urged parents to monitor their children’s behaviour and mental well-being, while teachers and school authorities must create a safe and inclusive environment and act swiftly when cases of bullying or violence are reported.
The minister also encouraged students to say no to bullying, violence, and cultism, and to report any incidents to trusted adults. The media was tasked with supporting the government by raising awareness about the dangers of these vices and the importance of moral education.