Lagos State Reinforces Ban on Flogging in Schools, Promotes Counseling and Alternative Discipline Methods

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its ban on corporal punishment in public schools, promoting counseling and minor corrective tasks as safer, more effective alternatives to discipline students.

The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to the ban on corporal punishment in public schools, emphasizing the use of counseling and minor corrective measures to address student misbehavior.

Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, reaffirmed that flogging and other forms of physical punishment remain strictly prohibited in schools across the state.

Alli-Balogun outlined the serious risks associated with flogging, including physical injuries, fainting, and, in extreme cases, death. He stressed the importance of adopting safer, more constructive methods of discipline.

“Flogging is not the ideal way to correct a student,” Alli-Balogun stated. “Lagos, like many other states, has a clear policy that forbids teachers from using corporal punishment. Instead, we encourage counseling as a primary corrective approach.”

In place of physical punishment, the government supports the use of light corrective tasks such as kneeling, picking up litter, and cutting grass within school grounds. These, combined with counseling, are designed to guide students toward better behavior while maintaining their safety and dignity.

This initiative forms part of the state’s broader positive reinforcement strategy, aiming to promote good behavior and instill a sense of responsibility in students.

“The goal is to help students understand why their behavior is unacceptable and correct it through guidance,” Alli-Balogun added.

The Commissioner also emphasized the vital role parents play in shaping their children’s behavior, urging them to take greater responsibility in their upbringing.

“Parents need to be more involved and attentive to their children. While the government is doing its part to eliminate indiscipline, a joint effort is necessary to create a safe, supportive learning environment,” he said.

Since the ban on corporal punishment was introduced in 2022, schools in Lagos have seen a marked improvement in student behavior. This progress has been further supported by the Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme, which works to maintain a secure and positive educational environment across the state.

Through these ongoing efforts, the Lagos State Government continues to prioritize the well-being and development of its students, fostering a culture of respect and discipline without resorting to harmful practices.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, LEGIT NG