NGO hails FG’s move to combat bullying in schools

A Non-Governmental Organisation, Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA), has commended the Federal Government for taking bold and decisive steps to address the growing menace of bullying in Nigerian schools.

The Executive Director and Founder of the organisation, Mr Belonwu Ezeanyaeche, gave the commendation in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Ezeanyaeche praised the government’s decision to establish a seven-member committee to tackle bullying in schools.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Federal Ministry of Education, established a seven-member committee and also introduced some channels to facilitate confidential reporting to address bullying in all Nigerian schools.

The executive director said that bullying had become a pervasive problem in Nigerian schools, with severe consequences for the mental health, well-being, and academic performance of affected students.

“The federal government’s move to address this issue is a welcomed development. This is a critical step towards creating a bully-free environment in Nigerian schools.

“We believe that every student deserves to learn in a safe and supportive environment, free from fear, intimidation, and harassment,” he added.

Ezeanyaeche pledged the organisation’s commitment to collaborate with the government and other stakeholders to ensure the success of the committee’s mandate and the effective implementation of anti-bullying initiatives in Nigerian schools.

He called on parents, teachers, and community leaders to join forces in the fight against bullying.

”We must all work together to create a culture of kindness, empathy, and respect in our schools.

“The establishment of the committee and the introduction of some reporting channels are seen as major victories in the campaign against bullying in Nigerian schools.

“With the support of all stakeholders, it is hoped that Nigerian schools will become safer, more supportive, and more inclusive environments for all students,”he said.