Stakeholders at a consultative dialogue convened by non-governmental organisation, International Alert Nigeria, have called for urgent, coordinated action to address the growing menace of bullying in Nigerian schools.
Representing the Country Director, Dr Kingsley Udo, Programme Manager, Sunday Jimoh, said the engagement was designed to influence policy direction and close implementation gaps.
“Our goal is to bring stakeholders together to chart a way forward particularly in terms of policy actions that can effectively address bullying, starting within Nigerian schools,” Jimoh stated.
He stressed the widespread nature of the problem, saying, “It is important to note that bullying is not confined to schools; it occurs across all spheres of society sports, workplaces, and even in leadership spaces.”
Jimoh noted that despite the passage of Nigeria’s 2025 anti-bullying policy, enforcement remains a concern.
“The essence is to now be able to approach policymakers. What more can be done? How can we galvanise more support,” he said.
Highlighting psychosocial risks, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Mohammed Buba Marwa, represented by Counselling and Psychosocial Support Unit officer, Henrietta HoldGod, warned that “In some cases, they may resort to substance use as a coping mechanism.”
Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, Binta Bello, represented by Director, Rebecca Enwusoyere, called for firm action, saying that “Schools must strengthen inclusive policies and enforce zero tolerance for bullying.”
The Federal Ministry of Education, Nigeria, represented by Augustina Apakasa, confirmed that implementation guidelines and committees are in place, with the 2025 Anti-Bullying Policy put in place by the government.
Providing research insights, Margaret Ebubedike of the Open University said, “Bullying today is more complex and more pervasive. Early intervention is key.”
Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Ahmed Audi, represented by Corps Superintendent, Adeoye Adegoke, warned that;“Early reporting systems and coordinated institutional responses are essential.”
Behavioural Change Communication expert, Ayotola Ilori, advocated youth-led solutions and collaboration across institutions.
“Tell every student to be an upstander, not a bystander. Speak up. Together, we are louder than silence,” Ilori stated.
Participants in a panel session on “Building Safe and Inclusive Schools through Collective Action” from government, media, and education sectors called for strengthened policy enforcement, expanded reporting systems, and the promotion of nationwide collaboration to ensure safer, inclusive learning environments for all students.