Lagos State Reiterates Ban on Corporal Punishment in Schools, Advocates Counselling

Editor 6 hours agoLast Updated: March 4, 2025

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By DAYO ADESULU

Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its ban on corporal punishment in schools, urging teachers and school administrators to adopt counselling as a more effective disciplinary approach. The state insists that flogging and other forms of physical punishment remain prohibited to protect students from injuries and potential health risks.

Lagos State Corporal Punishment Ban: Government’s Firm Stance

The Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, emphasized the policy during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday. He reiterated that teachers must refrain from physically punishing students for misbehavior, as it could lead to injuries, fainting, or fatal consequences.

“There is a policy here in Lagos and other parts of the country prohibiting teachers from administering corporal punishment to students and pupils,” Alli-Balogun stated. “Instead of flogging, we have adopted counselling as the preferred corrective measure.”

Alternative Disciplinary Measures in Lagos Schools

While enforcing a non-violent disciplinary system, the commissioner acknowledged that minor corrective actions such as kneeling, picking up litter, or cutting grass within school premises could serve as alternatives. He described these measures as part of positive reinforcement strategies aimed at molding student behavior.

“The goal is to educate the student on why misbehavior is unacceptable,” Alli-Balogun explained. “Counselling is key to effective discipline, as it helps correct behaviors while ensuring students understand the implications of their actions.”

Impact of the Lagos Corporal Punishment Ban on Student Behavior

The commissioner noted that since the ban on flogging, student discipline in Lagos public schools has significantly improved. According to him, students are now more conscious of their actions and the potential consequences, leading to a better learning environment.

Alli-Balogun also linked many cases of student misbehavior to poor parental upbringing, urging parents to take a more active role in their children’s moral development. He emphasized that discipline starts at home, and parents must work hand-in-hand with teachers to instill the right values in their children.

Lagos State’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme

The Lagos State Government officially banned corporal punishment in both public and private schools in 2022. To reinforce child safety and promote alternative disciplinary methods, the government also launched the Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme in Schools that same year.

The programme aims to:

Ensure the safety and well-being of students.
Educate teachers on alternative disciplinary measures.
Promote a violence-free learning environment in Lagos schools.

The commissioner urged school administrators and teachers to comply with the policy, warning that any educator found violating the corporal punishment ban will face strict disciplinary action.

Public Reactions to Lagos State’s Corporal Punishment Ban

The ban on corporal punishment in Lagos schools has sparked mixed reactions among educators, parents, and students. While many teachers and psychologists support non-violent disciplinary methods, some argue that stricter measures are necessary to maintain order in schools.

A Lagos-based education consultant, Mrs. Adebayo Folashade, praised the initiative, stating that positive reinforcement and counselling help foster a healthier school environment. She noted that “Flogging only instills fear, not discipline. Alternative measures like counselling and mentorship help students understand the impact of their actions.”

However, some parents believe mild corporal punishment should still be allowed. A concerned father, Mr. Kingsley Okonkwo, stated: “Back in our days, flogging kept students in check. I fear that this new approach might make children more stubborn.”

Despite differing views, the Lagos State Government remains committed to eradicating corporal punishment in schools, ensuring students learn in a safe and conducive environment.

Conclusion: Lagos State’s Commitment to Child Safety

With the reinforcement of the ban on corporal punishment in Lagos public schools, the government continues to prioritize child safety and educational reforms. By advocating for counselling over flogging, Lagos aims to promote a violence-free school system while improving student discipline through positive reinforcement.

The Lagos State Government urges all stakeholders in the education sector, including parents, teachers, and school administrators, to support this policy for the benefit of the next generation.