The Student Christian Movement (SCM) of Nigeria, on Saturday, called on the government to ensure the safety of Nigerian children, warning that exposing youth to unsafe environments could undermine the hopes of families and the nation’s future.

The student body spoke against the backdrop of posting National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to security-risk states.

Speaking at a press briefing in Bodija, Ibadan, to mark the International Day of Education and launch the Students Against Corruption Drive (SACD), the National President of SCM, Dr. Adebayo Kolade, stressed the critical role of young people as the backbone of family and national transformation.

“Our children are not merely learners; they are the hope of our families and the promise of a better tomorrow. Parents have invested heavily in their children, expecting that when they come of age, they will contribute meaningfully to society and restore their families’ fortunes. It is therefore unacceptable for the nation to expose them to unsafe spaces, whether economic, social, or physical,” Dr. Kolade said.

Dr. Kolade emphasised that the government must prioritise the welfare and protection of students, even above programmes like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), if these initiatives place children at risk. He argued that Nigeria has failed to provide a reliable social safety net for its citizens, making the safeguarding of youth even more urgent.

The SCM president was joined by the National Administrative Secretary, Pastor Paul Enikanselu; Rev. (Dr.) Olaremi Olalekan; and Assistant National Secretary, Miss Akpaa Blessing Ngozi, in urging policymakers to act decisively to shield young Nigerians from harm.

Addressing stakeholders, Dr. Kolade highlighted the enduring role of SCM in shaping youth and society since its founding in 1940 by Dr. Akanu Ibiam and Pa Theophilus Oluseye Ejuwumi. With a presence in 39 tertiary institutions, 847 secondary and primary schools, and 29 community fellowships across Nigeria, SCM is committed to nurturing morally grounded, socially responsible, and academically competent students.

“Education is not just a privilege; it is a fundamental human right and the foundation for building peaceful, productive, and prosperous societies. Yet, the rising costs of public schooling continue to exclude children from low-income families, undermining access and equity in education,” he said.

In line with these concerns, SCM officially launched the Students Against Corruption Drive (SACD), aimed at promoting integrity in schools and curbing examination malpractice. The initiative advocates structured academic support, including two mock exams before major examinations, to boost student confidence and competence, while instilling values of honesty and ethical conduct.

“Examination malpractice often stems from fear and self-doubt rather than incapacity. By equipping students academically and morally, SACD seeks to cultivate a generation that values integrity and is prepared to succeed through diligence rather than deceit,” Dr. Kolade said.

The SCM leadership also called on the government and civil society to make basic education both free and compulsory, urging authorities to hold parents accountable for children denied schooling. “Parents who refuse to send their children to school should face prosecution,” Dr. Kolade warned.

The press briefing drew representatives from government, educational institutions, civil society organisations, faith-based groups, teachers, and journalists, underscoring the broad coalition needed to safeguard children and strengthen the education system.

SCM reiterated its commitment to shaping leaders for the future, emphasising that investment in education, child safety, and ethical standards today will determine Nigeria’s prosperity tomorrow.

“Thank you for standing with us, for believing in education, and for committing to integrity,” Kolade said.