Nigerian government reaffirms its commitment to the protection of human rights

The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the rights of Nigerian citizens and foreigners in the country.

Abubakar Malami, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, gave the assurance during the inauguration of the National Human Rights Commission’s 5th Governing Council in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

The National Human Rights Commission, according to the Minister, was established in order to fulfill the country’s international obligations.

‘As you are aware, the Commission was established by the Nigerian government in 1995 to fulfill its international obligation under the United Nations General Assembly’s Resolution 48/134 of December 20, 1993, which enjoined all member states to establish National Human Rights Institutions for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights,’ he said.

“All of these measures have been taken to ensure that the Commission is able to properly advise the government in the fulfillment of its international human rights obligations, as well as protect and promote the human rights of Nigerians and persons living in Nigeria without fear or favor in accordance with the Paris Principles,” Malami said.

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Dr. Salamatu Suleiman, Chairperson of the Commission’s Governing Council, stated that nations are judged by their human rights records, and that she is prepared to provide the necessary leadership to help the Commission realize its vision and mission.

improved well-being
She also urged the government to improve the welfare of the National Human Commission’s employees.

“It is unhealthy and embarrassing for the Council’s personnel to be poached by Non-Governmental Organizations, NGOs, since they were underpaid,” Dr Suleiman said.

Meanwhile, Tony Ojukwu, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, noted that one of the biggest hurdles to the Commission’s ability to carry out its duties is a lack of funds.

Despite certain hurdles, Mr. Ojukwu stated, “the commission has been accredited with ‘A Status’ by the Global Alliance for National Human Rights Institutions, GANHRI, the international umbrella body of Human Rights Institutions.”

“The Nigerian Human Rights Commission is regarded as a stronghold for the protection and promotion of human rights,” he said.

Mr. Ojukwu also praised the Commission’s development partners for their contributions from 2016 to the present.