Mobolaji Ogunlende Champions Bully-Free Lagos at International Children’s Day Celebration

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, marked this year’s International Children’s Day with a resounding call to end bullying, empowering young minds to stand up for kindness and empathy. 

The event, held on Wednesday at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium in Ikeja, brought together students from schools across Lagos under the theme ‘Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bully-Free Generation.’

Beyond mere statutory observances, Ogunlende emphasized that “our children are the future, and every day is an opportunity to celebrate and protect them.” The commissioner highlighted the importance of continuous efforts to foster safe, inclusive environments where young people can thrive without fear. 

Through interactive sessions, including movie screenings, educational lectures, and student-led debates, the event provided a platform for children to voice their concerns and deepen their understanding of bullying prevention.  

“We are committed to creating a Lagos where every child feels safe, valued, and empowered,” Ogunlende declared. 

The initiative aligns with the state’s broader agenda to promote mental health, social inclusion, and youth development. Students showcased their insights on combating bullying, reinforcing the message that collective action from peers, educators, and policymakers is essential in building a bully-free society.  

With the rallying cry ‘Not in Our Lagos’, the event underscored the government’s zero-tolerance stance against bullying. As Lagos continues to lead in youth advocacy and child welfare, Ogunlende’s initiative sets a powerful precedent for other states to follow. The celebration not only honored children but also equipped them with the tools to become upstanders, not bystanders, in the fight for a kinder, more inclusive future.