Friday, July 3, 2026 -The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), bullying, cultism and drug abuse in public schools, urging teachers, parents, students and other stakeholders to work together to protect learners and create safer learning environments.

The government made this known during a sensitisation programme organised by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in collaboration with the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) and the Ministry of Youth and Social Development.

The programme, held on Wednesday at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, brought together government officials, education stakeholders, teachers and students to raise awareness about the dangers of sexual and gender-based violence, bullying, cultism and drug abuse, while promoting responsible behaviour and positive values among young people.

Delivering the keynote address, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that schools remain safe places where students can learn and develop without fear of violence, intimidation or other harmful influences.

The commissioner stressed that tackling sexual and gender-based violence, bullying, cultism and drug abuse requires the collective efforts of parents, teachers, communities and government agencies, noting that they all have important roles to play in protecting the future of young people.

“Education is not merely about acquiring academic knowledge. It is about nurturing responsible, confident, morally upright and productive citizens,” the commissioner stated.

He also urged teachers to remain vigilant, compassionate and professional in carrying out their responsibilities, describing them as mentors, counsellors and protectors of students.

“Never ignore complaints of bullying or abuse, no matter how insignificant they may appear. Every child deserves to be heard, protected and treated with dignity,” he said.

He encouraged students to report cases of abuse and stand up for classmates facing intimidation.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, said the programme reflects the commitment of the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu to providing a safe, secure, inclusive and conducive learning environment for every child.

She explained that the government’s vision goes beyond academic excellence to raising disciplined, responsible and morally upright citizens.

The permanent secretary also stressed that every student deserves to feel protected, respected and empowered. She urged parents and guardians to stay actively involved in their children’s lives by monitoring both their online and offline activities while building relationships that encourage open communication.

She commended the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency and the Ministry of Youth and Social Development for partnering with the ministry to strengthen child protection and promote positive values across public secondary schools.

During the programme, participants received presentations from representatives of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency and the Ministry of Youth and Social Development.

The speakers educated teachers and students on different forms of sexual and gender-based violence, the effects of bullying, the dangers of cultism and substance abuse, and the importance of speaking up, seeking help and supporting victims. They also highlighted available reporting channels and support services for affected persons.

Also present at the event were the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Mrs. Victoria Mopelola Peregrino, who was represented by the Director of Co-Curricular and Education Development, Mrs. M. Aloba; Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Education District IV, Mr. Olufemi Paseda; Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Education District VI, Mrs. Mojisola Yusuf; Director-General of the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA), Dr. Sulaimon Ogundimu; Registrar of the Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Adebayo Oransolu; Chief Executive Officer of Global Education Media Limited, Mr. Durotimi Adeboye; alongside other senior government officials and stakeholders in the education sector.

The state government said it would continue to partner with relevant agencies to sustain awareness programmes aimed at protecting students, promoting positive behaviour and ensuring that public secondary schools remain safe, secure and supportive learning environments for every child.