The Lagos State Government has reminded teachers that beating students is not allowed in schools. Instead, they should use counselling to correct bad behaviour.
Speaking in an interview on Monday, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, emphasized that flogging is banned to prevent injuries, fainting, or even death.
“There is a rule in Lagos and other parts of the country that stops teachers from beating students,” he said. “Instead of flogging, we now use counselling to guide them.”
While physical punishment is discouraged, the commissioner noted that minor corrective actions—like making students kneel, pick up trash, or cut grass—are still allowed. These, he explained, are meant to teach students responsibility in a positive way.
“The aim is to help students understand why their behaviour is wrong,” he added. “Counselling is meant for correction, not punishment.”
Alli-Balogun also blamed some cases of bad behaviour on poor parenting and urged parents to be more involved in their children’s upbringing.
He said that since the ban on flogging, student discipline has improved, as many now understand their actions have consequences.
The Lagos State Government officially banned corporal punishment in both public and private schools in 2022. That same year, it launched the Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme to ensure child safety and encourage better ways to discipline students.
