The persistence of corporal punishment in Nigerian schools, despite legislative efforts to prohibit it, underscores a significant challenge within the educational system. Despite the enactment of the Child’s Rights Act in 2003, which explicitly forbids corporal punishment, reports indicate its widespread prevalence, particularly in primary education. This study aims to investigate the prevalence, perceptions, and impacts of corporal punishment on primary school students’ well-being and academic performance within the Eti-Osa Local Government Area (LGA) of Lagos State, Nigeria. By examining the frequency and severity of corporal punishment incidents, assessing behavioral outcomes, evaluating academic performance, and exploring stakeholders’ attitudes, the research seeks to provide comprehensive insights into the disciplinary practices and their implications in this specific context. Through a quantitative research approach, this study endeavors to inform evidence-based policies and interventions aimed at promoting positive disciplinary practices, protecting children’s rights, and fostering safe and conducive learning environments in Nigerian primary schools.

The significance of this study lies in its potential to address a critical issue within the Nigerian educational landscape and contribute to the advancement of evidence-based disciplinary practices. By focusing on corporal punishment practices and their effects within primary schools in Eti-Osa LGA, Lagos State, the research offers valuable insights for policymakers, educators, parents, and other stakeholders. Through a systematic examination of the prevalence, perceptions, and impacts of corporal punishment, the study aims to generate evidence that can inform policy development, educational practices, and intervention strategies tailored to the primary education sector. Ultimately, the findings have the potential to promote positive disciplinary approaches, uphold children’s rights, and create safer and more supportive learning environments for primary school students in the region.