The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to banning corporal punishment in schools, urging educators to adopt counselling and non-violent methods for disciplining students. This policy, which aligns with global child protection standards, aims to create a safer and more inclusive learning environment for pupils across the state.
The ban on corporal punishment in Lagos schools was introduced under the Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme, reflecting the state’s dedication to upholding children’s rights. The policy prohibits physical punishment such as flogging, caning, or any action intended to cause pain. Instead, it encourages alternative disciplinary measures like counselling, dialogue, and positive reinforcement to address behavioral issues among students.
Speaking at a recent event, Lagos State Commissioner for Education, Folashade Adefisayo, emphasized the importance of this policy in preventing harm to students. She cited past incidents where corporal punishment led to severe injuries or fatalities as key reasons for the ban. “We cannot afford to put our children at risk in the name of discipline,” she stated. “Counselling is a more effective and humane way to guide students toward better behavior.”
Since the implementation of the ban, schools in Lagos have reported mixed outcomes. On one hand, many students have responded positively to the new approach. For instance, counselling sessions have helped foster better communication between teachers and students, leading to improved classroom behavior. A student from Katsina State, where a similar policy was adopted, shared that she now feels safer attending school without fear of being beaten3.
However, some educators have expressed concerns about challenges in maintaining discipline without corporal punishment. A teacher in FESTAC lamented that students are becoming more unruly and difficult to manage since the ban was enforced1. She highlighted cases where teachers were dismissed for minor disciplinary actions, creating fear among educators about enforcing any form of discipline.
The ban on corporal punishment is part of a larger national and global movement to protect children from violence. According to UNICEF, 85% of Nigerian children under 14 have experienced physical punishment at school3. Studies show that such practices negatively impact attendance and learning outcomes while contributing to long-term psychological harm23. The Lagos State Government’s policy aligns with these findings and supports Nigeria’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16.2, which seeks to end violence against children.
Despite its benefits, critics argue that abolishing corporal punishment entirely may lead to unintended consequences. Some parents and educators believe that carefully regulated physical discipline could still play a role in managing extreme cases of indiscipline2. Others worry that without adequate training on alternative methods, teachers may struggle to maintain order in classrooms.
The transition away from corporal punishment requires significant adjustments for both teachers and students. Teachers need training on effective non-violent disciplinary techniques, while schools must invest in resources such as counselling units and behavioral management programs. Additionally, parents must play a more active role in instilling discipline at home to complement efforts made by schools1.
To address these challenges, stakeholders have called for increased funding for teacher training programs and the establishment of clear guidelines on acceptable disciplinary practices. The Nigerian government has already pledged N112.18 billion for safe schools financing from 2024 to 2026 as part of its broader efforts to protect children and improve educational outcomes2.
Conclusion
The Lagos State Government’s reaffirmation of its ban on corporal punishment marks a significant step toward creating safer learning environments for students. While the policy has faced criticism from some quarters, its alignment with global child protection standards underscores its importance. Moving forward, collaboration among educators, parents, and policymakers will be crucial in ensuring the success of this initiative while addressing any challenges that arise. By prioritizing counselling and positive reinforcement over physical punishment, Lagos is setting an example for other states in Nigeria and beyond.
