By Bababunmi Agbebi
The Lagos State Government has announced plans to stop school-age children from roaming the streets during school hours, a move aimed at tackling the growing number of out-of-school children across the state.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the state will issue an executive order stating that no child should be seen on the streets between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. unless there is a legitimate reason for not being in school. The policy is part of broader efforts to improve school attendance and ensure children receive proper education.
Under the plan, authorities will work with communities and schools to identify children who should be in classrooms but are instead found on the streets. The government also launched a $25 million education support programme designed to help bring tens of thousands of out-of-school children back into formal education.
In areas such as Ikeja, the capital of Lagos State, many children are often seen during school hours in markets, bus stops, and commercial centres helping parents sell goods, hawking, or running errands.
If the new policy is enforced strictly, these children may be questioned by law-enforcement or local task forces when found outside during school time. Parents who deliberately keep their children out of school may also face penalties once the executive order takes effect.
Parents and guardians can take several steps to avoid issues with the government once the policy begins:
1. Ensure children attend school regularly
Children between primary and junior secondary school age should be enrolled and made to attend classes daily.
2. Keep proof of school enrolment
Parents should keep school ID cards, admission letters, or fee receipts in case authorities ask questions.
3. Avoid sending children on errands during school hours
Even simple errands like buying items at the market between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. could raise suspicion under the new policy.
4. Provide valid reasons when children are not in school
If a child is sick, attending an appointment, or studying at home temporarily, parents should have documentation such as a medical note.
5. Use after-school hours for family businesses
Children helping parents with shops or trade should only do so after school hours or during holidays.
For families in Ikeja, the message from authorities is clear: school hours should be reserved for education, not street activities. Parents who cooperate with the policy may not only avoid sanctions but also help improve the future prospects of their children.
