The Lagos State Government has stepped up efforts to improve safety in schools with a renewed campaign against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), bullying, cultism and drug abuse. The initiative, unveiled on Wednesday at a sensitisation programme in Alausa, Ikeja, is aimed at creating safer learning environments and protecting children from threats that could affect their education and overall development.

Addressing students and teachers at the event, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, said the state would strengthen child protection policies, school safety measures and guidance services to prevent abuse and other harmful behaviours. He said the government’s intervention is intended to ensure that every learner can study in a secure and supportive environment.

According to the commissioner, schools should provide more than academic instruction by helping to shape responsible and disciplined citizens. He stressed that children cannot perform at their best in classrooms where fear, intimidation, violence or insecurity have become part of daily life, making the promotion of safety a priority for the education sector.

Alli-Balogun identified sexual and gender-based violence as one of the most serious risks facing school-age children, noting that abuse, harassment, exploitation and discrimination continue to undermine the physical, emotional and educational well-being of learners. He said addressing those challenges requires the active participation of teachers, students, parents and education authorities.

The commissioner also expressed concern over the growing cases of bullying, cult-related activities and drug abuse within and around schools. According to him, such behaviours encourage indiscipline, violence and criminality, placing young people at greater risk and threatening their chances of achieving their educational goals.

Through the awareness campaign, the Lagos State Government says it is adopting a preventive approach by encouraging early reporting, strengthening support systems and promoting responsible behaviour among students. Officials say sustained collaboration between schools, families and communities will be critical to protecting children and building a learning environment where every student can thrive.