As Nigeria marked the 2025 National Children’s Day, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, issued a clarion call to parents, teachers, and community stakeholders to unite in the fight against bullying, which he described as a threat to children’s development and dreams.
Speaking at a colourful event held in Akure and themed “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation”, Governor Aiyedatiwa said all hands must be on deck to curb the menace of bullying in homes, schools, and other environments where children interact.
“All stakeholders must strive to protect every child and give them wings to fly toward their dreams,” Aiyedatiwa urged. “Also, children must support one another and not be silent in the face of bullying.”
The event, organised by the Office of the Special Adviser on Women Affairs to the Governor, was marked by cultural displays, oratory performances, and a ceremonial inauguration of the third Ondo State Children’s Parliament—revived after being inactive for 12 years.
Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Dr Seun Osemaye, for her commitment to child welfare in the state, and reiterated his administration’s resolve to formulate and implement child-friendly policies.
“I commend Dr Seun Osemaye for the interventions in the welfare of children,” the governor said. “My administration will continue to prioritise policies and programmes that impact children.”
In a heartfelt appeal to parents, Mrs Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, the wife of the governor, urged them to build strong bonds of friendship with their children, noting that a nurturing relationship at home is key to addressing bullying.
“Bullying must be wholly discouraged even at homes, schools and other public places,” she said.
Dr Osemaye, in her remarks, emphasized the importance of raising awareness and empowering children to speak up. She described the event as a celebration of love, unity, and advocacy for children’s welfare.
“The theme of the 2025 Children’s Day celebration is apt and timely in tackling the critical issue of bullying in society,” she said. “Stakeholders must take actions against bullying among children and young adults.”
She further noted that the initiative aims to build children’s confidence and equip them with advocacy tools to confront social challenges.
Highlighting the significance of the day, Miss Olamide Poroye, speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated Children’s Parliament, expressed gratitude to the governor for reviving the platform after over a decade of inactivity.
“The platform would give children in the state a platform to speak and make their intentions known,” she said.
The event concluded with a vibrant parade and award ceremony, where outstanding primary and secondary schools were honoured with cash prizes and trophies for excellence in cultural presentations and oratory skills.
As the curtains fell on the 2025 Children’s Day celebration in Ondo State, the message was clear: bullying has no place in a society that seeks to raise confident, courageous, and empowered children.
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