By Oladosu Adebola Oluwaseun Abuja, Nigeria
In a powerful demonstration of his commitment to nurturing future leaders and addressing critical issues affecting young Nigerians, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, marked this year’s Children’s Day on May 27, 2025, with a series of impactful events. Central to the celebrations was the remarkable gesture of vacating his esteemed seat for a secondary school pupil, who briefly presided as a ‘Shadow Speaker,’ symbolizing a transfer of authority to the next generation. This act of empowering young voices is becoming a hallmark of Speaker Abbas’s tenure, as it was the second time the Speaker of the 10th House has extended such an honour. On October 10, 2024, he similarly yielded his seat to 16-year-old gender advocate, Isabel Anani, for a ‘Shadow Speaker’ role during the commemoration of the International Day for the Girl Child.
On Tuesday, the hallowed chambers of the House of Representatives witnessed Lawal Haruna Saliu, a bright student from Government Secondary School, Kuje, assume the Speaker’s role for a ceremonial session that lasted approximately 15 minutes. A visibly excited Saliu expressed profound gratitude for the unprecedented opportunity, a moment that undoubtedly left an indelible mark on his young life and inspired countless others.This year’s Children’s Day was observed under the poignant and crucial theme: “Stand up, speak up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation.” This theme resonated deeply with the day’s proceedings, highlighting the pressing need to create safer and more supportive environments for children across Nigeria.During the brief but significant session, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, the diligent Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, moved a motion of urgent public importance. Her motion, meticulously crafted to commemorate International Children’s Day, laid the groundwork for critical discussions and legislative action concerning the welfare of Nigerian children.
Following robust deliberations, the House adopted a series of far-reaching resolutions, urging the Federal Government to prioritize the well-being of its youngest citizens. These resolutions included a call to: Prioritise policies that comprehensively support children’s health, education, and overall welfare. This encompasses a holistic approach to child development, recognizing that their well-being is intrinsically linked to the nation’s future.
Significantly improve investment in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure, with a particular focus on rural communities. This crucial step aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to educational resources and opportunities for all Nigerian children, regardless of their geographical location. Undertake a thorough review of the Child’s Rights Act. This review is vital to ensure that existing legislation remains relevant, robust, and effective in safeguarding the rights and interests of children in a rapidly evolving society.
Beyond these broad policy directives, the House also specifically urged the Federal Ministry of Education to implement comprehensive programmes designed to enhance digital literacy among both students and teachers. In an increasingly digital world, equipping the next generation with essential technological skills is paramount for their success and for national development. Furthermore, the lawmakers strongly enjoined the National Assembly to expedite action on the passage of the establishment of a National Child (Rights) Protection and Enforcement Agency Bill. This proposed agency would serve as a dedicated body, providing a more focused and effective framework for the protection and enforcement of children’s rights across the country. To ensure diligent follow-through, the House mandated its Committees on Women Affairs, Digital Information Technology, and Basic Education and Services to closely monitor and ensure compliance with all adopted resolutions.
The day’s activities culminated in an engaging interactive session between Speaker Abbas and students invited from ten secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory. The diverse group comprised six public schools (GSS, Bwari; GGSS, Abaji; GSS, Kwali; GSS, Gwagwalada; GSS, Kagini; GSS, Kuje) and four private schools (Kingsville School, Jabi; Africa Community School, Asokoro; International Community School, Jabi, and Britarch School, Lugbe). This direct engagement provided a unique platform for the Speaker to listen to the concerns of young people and offer guidance.
During this session, Speaker Abbas emphatically stressed the urgent need to implement and rigorously enforce existing laws against both physical and cyberbullying within school environments. He acknowledged the pervasive nature of these issues and underscored the importance of creating safe spaces where children can learn and thrive without fear.
Responding to incisive questions from some of the students, Speaker Abbas expressed deep concern over the alarming incidence of child labour and trafficking in Nigeria. He unequivocally stated that relevant government agencies at all levels must proactively perform their enforcement roles to effectively tackle these egregious menaces.”There are laws against bullying in schools, and the schools’ authorities must take advantage of same to protect those who speak out,” Speaker Abbas asserted. “If actions are not taken by the schools, the matter should be escalated to parents and relevant security agencies. The government stands against bullying, and victims should learn to speak out more to curb it.” His words served as a powerful call to action, urging both institutions and individuals to be vigilant and proactive in safeguarding children.He further elaborated on the collective responsibility in combating child exploitation: “It also behooves on the relevant agencies to implement and enforce the laws against child labour and trafficking in Nigeria. Nigerians have the habit of keeping quiet when they see people violating laws. Almost everyone knows one or two underage children working as domestic servants either in their homes or their neighbours.” This candid observation highlighted the societal complicity that often allows these abuses to persist, urging a shift towards greater civic responsibility and reporting.
In a poignant message to young Nigerians contemplating relocation outside the country, Speaker Abbas urged them to “have a rethink, as things are not that rosy elsewhere.” He underscored the importance of recognizing the opportunities within Nigeria, particularly with the current administration’s policies. The Speaker noted that with the ongoing reforms and the gains being recorded, the expansion of private sector participation to create more jobs is imminent. He therefore urged the youth to remain resilient and strategically position themselves to take full advantage of the government’s policies, emphasizing that their future lies within the abundant opportunities available in their home country.
Speaker Abbas’s Children’s Day celebration was more than just a symbolic gesture; it was a reaffirmation of the House of Representatives’ commitment to the welfare and empowerment of Nigerian children. By giving a platform to a young voice, advocating for stronger laws against bullying and child labour, and engaging directly with students, Speaker Abbas has set a powerful precedent for prioritizing the nation’s most valuable asset – its youth.