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At 30, NHRC Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting All Nigerians
At 30, NHRC Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting All Nigerians
By: Michael Mike
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding the rights of all Nigerians as it marks three decades of advocacy, accountability, and service.
Speaking at the NHRC @ 30 Civil Society and Human Rights Defenders Forum and Human Rights Expo, Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu highlighted the Commission’s achievements from monitoring detention facilities to shaping national policies on human rights.
Ojukwu stressed that NHRC has remained dedicated to protecting every Nigerian and strengthening its mandate for vulnerable groups.
He said: “As we mark thirty years, we must recommit ourselves to promoting, protecting, and enforcing human rights for all Nigerians, ensuring that every person, regardless of circumstance, can enjoy their rights fully.”
He highlighted key milestones, including national action plans, the National Preventive Mechanism, and leadership in West Africa. He said: “The NHRC has successfully implemented five consecutive National Action Plans and, for the first time in Nigeria, facilitated the adoption of the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights. We are now designated as the National Preventive Mechanism, strengthening our efforts to prevent torture across the country.”
Ojukwu emphasized the indispensable role of civil society and human rights defenders in the Commission’s work.
“Civil society organisations and human rights defenders have been the backbone of human rights protection in Nigeria. Your courage, advocacy, and relentless commitment have ensured that no violation is ignored and that the NHRC remains accountable and effective,” he said.
He stressed the importance of addressing modern threats to human rights, including technology, climate, and governance issues.
“The future will demand greater attention to emerging issues such as artificial intelligence, digital surveillance, misinformation, and climate-related rights, while ensuring that human rights are fully respected and protected in all areas of governance,” he said.
He also stressed that Nigerians must actively uphold human rights, emphasizing that real progress comes from people, not just institutions.
“Institutions alone do not protect human rights,people do. True progress depends on individuals who refuse to be indifferent, who speak out, and who take action to defend the rights and dignity of every Nigerian,” he said.
Ojukwu called on government, civil society, and citizens to deepen collaboration in tackling emerging challenges such as digital surveillance, climate-related rights, and civic space restrictions.
On his part, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mohamed Fall, emphasized the National Human Rights Commission’s three decades of steadfast advocacy in protecting human rights, noting its professional and courageous approach in line with international standards.
He said: “For three decades, the Commission has been an indispensable champion of human rights in Nigeria, consistently demonstrating courage, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to the Paris Principles, serving as a beacon of justice and a stronghold for the vulnerable.”
Fall highlighted the extensive partnership between the UN and NHRC, pointing out the technical support, training, and capacity-building programs that have strengthened the Commission’s independence and operational effectiveness nationwide.
“Over these 30 years, Occupational Safety and Health Administration,OSHA has provided sustained technical assistance, capacity building, advisory services, training, and strategic support that has significantly strengthened the Commission’s independence, investigative mechanisms, monitoring systems, complaint handling processes, and nationwide outreach, helping it grow into one of Africa’s most respected human rights institutions,” he said.
The UN representative commended the leadership of NHRC, particularly its Executive Secretary, for boosting the institution’s credibility, public trust, and regional stature, making it a key player in West African human rights initiatives.
“Under his leadership, the NHRC has reached new heights of effectiveness and public trust, and we congratulate him on his role as chairperson of the Network of National Human Rights Institutions of West Africa, a well-deserved recognition that underscores his regional and continental influence in advancing human rights,” he said.
Fall stressed that NHRC’s 30th anniversary should not only be a celebration but also a moment to renew commitment to democracy, human dignity, and the fight against corruption, ensuring past lessons inspire future action.
“This moment is not just a commemoration of thirty years of existence, but a clear call to recommit ourselves to the ideals of democracy, human dignity, and fundamental freedoms, ensuring that the lessons learned during times of darkness become catalysts for concrete actions in our ongoing quest for a Nigeria where human rights are respected and upheld,” he said.
The European Union ( EU), Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, emphasized that the European Union values the NHRC’s consistent work over three decades in defending human rights, providing Nigerians with access to justice, and promoting accountability across the federation.
He said: “The Commission’s presence across all states and federations offers Nigerians a reassurance that every citizen can gain access to the Commission in which they can conduct a deep and accountable investigation with a view to the human rights and fundamental freedoms that they value, reflecting the Commission’s enduring commitment to protecting human dignity and justice.”
Mignot highlighted the NHRC’s strategic role in promoting human rights through collaboration with civil society and government actors, leveraging its documentation and data to guide advocacy and reforms.
“The Commission and civil society partners have a strategic role to play in promoting respect for and enjoyment of human rights as guaranteed by the country’s constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and other international human rights instruments, and its monthly Human Rights Situation Classical and the National Observatory of Human Rights provide essential public data to guide effective advocacy and interventions,” he said.
The Ambassador noted the NHRC’s effectiveness in handling complaints and enforcing human rights protections, illustrating its reach and impact with concrete examples such as handling millions of complaints annually.
“Over a 30-year period, the Commission has established itself as the premier defender of people’s rights, handling last year alone 2.5 million complaints on labor rights, gender-based violence, and infractions against women’s rights and freedoms, demonstrating the scope of the Commission and the effectiveness of its services,” he said.
Mignot also stressed the need for evidence-based, public health-centered approaches to challenges like drug abuse, rather than relying solely on criminalization, highlighting NHRC’s role in shaping policy.
“The focus on penalties and the resulting stigma tends to discourage drug users from seeking help, leading to further abuse and mental health issues, and the Commission’s advocacy emphasizes a balanced approach that combines law enforcement with public health strategies, rehabilitation, and community-based interventions to protect the rights and dignity of all affected,” he said.
Law Professor and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Prof.Joy Ezeilo emphasized that Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999 was not a gift, but the result of relentless activism and courage by unarmed citizens, civil society, women’s organizations, student unions, and professional associations who demanded accountability despite repression.
“The resilience of civil society, because they didn’t give up, was evident in the civil liberty organizations, the women’s movements, and many others who stood up. Democracy in Nigeria was not handed down as a gift from nature; it was wrested into a system by the courage of unarmed citizens and the persistence of organized groups who risked persecution to demand accountability,” she said .
She highlighted the legal and institutional milestones achieved since 1999, including the new constitution, judicial improvements, and proliferation of NGOs advocating for transparency, accountability, and human rights. However, challenges remain in consolidating democracy and ensuring independent institutions.
“Because of civil society, there has been a proliferation of non-governmental organizations advocating for human rights, transparency, and accountability. Judicial improvement has been observed, yet the independence of the judiciary remains a demand that must be fulfilled, and the legitimacy of our constitution continues to require active engagement from ‘we, the people’ of Nigeria”.
She acknowledged persistent human rights challenges, including impunity by security forces, violence against women and girls, poverty, unemployment, trafficking, and cyber threats.
She stressed the importance of addressing these challenges to protect freedom, dignity, and civic participation.
“Reports of extrajudicial killings, torture, and judicial detention by security agencies continue to surface, while women and girls experience high rates of violence and limited legal protection. Poverty, unemployment, and trafficking exacerbate these vulnerabilities. Democracy must guarantee the dignity and participation of all citizens, including marginalized groups”.
She further emphasized the importance of independent human rights institutions like the NHRC and the support of international bodies such as the UN, African Union, and ECOWAS in monitoring, advising, and ensuring compliance with human rights standards. Effective remedy and institutional autonomy are crucial.
“Today, we are happy that we have an independent human rights institution. Over the past years, it has operated across regimes, documented violations, advised on policy, and engaged in dialogue. International organizations like UN, African Union, and ECOWAS have been the backbone in pushing for accountability and compliance, reminding us that effective remedy and institutional independence are essential to realizing human rights,” she said.
Ezeilo however called for collective responsibility, civic engagement, and continued vigilance to strengthen democracy, protect rights, and ensure that human rights are not just aspirations but a lived reality for all Nigerians.
“As we strive to build a more just society, together we can channel our insights and experiences into a future where human rights are not just aspirations but reality for every Nigerian. The path forward requires unwavering dedication.
At 30, NHRC Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting All Nigerians
NCC, NSCDC Warn Construction Firms Against Fibre Optic Cable Damage
By: Michael Mike
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have issued a strong warning to construction companies, contractors, and other stakeholders over the rising incidents of fibre-optic cable damage during road construction and civil engineering activities across the country.
In a joint statement issued at the weekend, the two agencies described fibre-optic infrastructure as a critical national asset and cautioned that negligence leading to its damage will no longer be tolerated. They stressed that offenders risk prosecution, as such acts now constitute criminal offences under existing laws.
According to the NCC and NSCDC, fibre-optic cables are central to Nigeria’s digital economy, supporting communication networks, emergency services, business operations, and government functions. They warned that frequent and avoidable fibre cuts pose serious threats to national security, economic stability, and public safety.
The agencies noted that under the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Order 2024, telecommunication fibre infrastructure has been classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure. As a result, any damage arising from unauthorized excavation, construction activities, or failure to coordinate with relevant authorities is deemed a criminal act.
They further stated that individuals, construction firms, or government contractors found culpable will face prosecution and applicable sanctions as provided under laws such as the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.
The NCC and NSCDC warned that future incidents linked to road construction, excavation, or civil works carried out without proper consultation with network operators and regulators would attract strict legal consequences.
The agencies urged federal, state, and local government authorities, road construction companies, utility providers, and private developers to comply fully with established guidelines. These include conducting pre-construction verification of fibre routes, collaborating with the NCC, telecom operators, and NSCDC before and during construction, and adhering to approved excavation and right-of-way procedures.
They also called for the immediate reporting of any accidental fibre damage to enable swift response and minimize service disruptions.
Members of the public were encouraged to report acts of fibre-optic infrastructure sabotage or damage to the nearest NSCDC office or through designated communication channels.
NCC, NSCDC Warn Construction Firms Against Fibre Optic Cable Damage
ECOWAS Reports Resilient Growth and Major Regional Achievements in 2025
By: Michael Mike
The President of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Dr. Omar Touray on Thursday said the Commiswion has recorded notable economic, social, and institutional progress in 2025, despite global uncertainties and regional security challenges.
Speaking at a meeting with development partners, Touray said the regional economy grew by 4.6 percent in 2025, up from 4.3 percent in 2024, with projections of 5.0 percent growth in 2026.
He noted that this performance reflects the implementation of structural reforms, increased fiscal discipline, and measures to strengthen key sectors such as extractive industries and trade.
Touray said the regional inflation also eased from 24.4 percent in 2024 to 16.8 percent in 2025, supported by coordinated monetary and fiscal policies.
He highlighted improvements in budget management, with the regional deficit declining to 3.1 percent of GDP in 2025, adding that the debt-to-GDP ratio fell slightly to 45.7 percent.
He noted that current account balances remained positive, led by export surpluses from Nigeria, Ghana, and Guinea.
On the political and security front, Touray said ECOWAS strengthened peacekeeping and preventive diplomacy efforts across the region. He revealed that missions in The Gambia and Guinea-Bissau assessed operational and financial implications, with recommendations for improved training, monitoring, and exit strategies.
He stated that counter-terrorism initiatives intensified following a rise in fatalities from attacks, with regional intelligence sharing and specialized training programmes expanded, adding that arms control efforts also advanced with the donation of weapons-marking machines to four member states.
On trade and economic integration, Touray said ECOWAS continued to consolidate economic integration, advancing the free trade area, customs union, and common market initiatives.
He said efforts to facilitate cross-border trade included support for women and youth entrepreneurs, the rollout of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card in six countries, and the launch of digital platforms to track trade compliance. The region also participated in major trade fairs and forums, including the Intra-African Trade Fair in Algeria and the first ECOWAS Trade and Investment Forum in Lagos.
Touray noted that significant progress was made in energy, transport, and digital infrastructure, adding that clean energy programmes certified solar technicians, while broadband connectivity projects prepared the deployment of a second submarine cable.
He said ECOWAS also advanced regional road standards, aviation safety capacity, and interconnection hubs for internet access.
He said the Commission strengthened agricultural governance, climate-smart practices, and food security programs, reaching millions of beneficiaries with improved farming technologies, school feeding programmes and livestock development projects. Partnerships on climate resilience, carbon markets, and sustainable resource management were expanded.
He added that through the West Africa Health Organization (WAHO), ECOWAS enhanced epidemic preparedness and laboratory capacities, stating that humanitarian support focused on vulnerable populations, including women cured of fistula and youth employability initiatives, including programmes on gender equality, women’s empowerment, and anti-trafficking capacity building were implemented in multiple member states.
Touray said ECOWAS strengthened internal governance, financial management, and staff capacity development, including training in strategic leadership and risk management.
He revealed that the ECOWAS Court of Justice held 79 sessions and increased public outreach to improve citizen access to justice. International partnerships and diplomatic engagements with the UN, EU, World Bank, IMF, and AfDB yielded support for regional development projects across transport, agriculture, energy, and digital transformation.
He said he these achievements position ECOWAS to advance regional integration, economic growth, and stability, despite ongoing challenges such as geopolitical tensions, security threats, and the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Community.
ECOWAS Reports Resilient Growth and Major Regional Achievements in 2025
Kadafur Swears In 27 Newly Elected Local Government Chairmen in Borno
By: Bulama Talba
The Borno State Acting Governor, Hon. (Dr.) Umar Usman Kadafur, on Thursday swore in 27 newly elected Local Government Chairmen, charging them to embrace accountability, prudence, and people-oriented leadership at the grassroots.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Government House, Maiduguri, marked the formal commencement of a new tenure for the Chairmen across the state’s 27 Local Government Areas.
The oath of office and allegiance was administered by the Chief Judge of Borno State, Hon. Justice Kashim Zanna, who was represented by Justice Haruna Mshelia, in three batches.
Delivering the keynote address, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, represented at the event, described the occasion as a “solemn transition of democratic duty,” stressing that leadership at the local level is a covenant of trust with the people, not a celebration of power.
He congratulated the Chairmen on their victory at the polls, commending the Borno State Independent Electoral Commission (BOSIEC) for conducting a peaceful, free, and fair election.
He however, cautioned that the real task begins with service delivery, noting that local governments are the engine rooms for implementing the state’s 25-Year Development Plan and 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiative.
The Acting Governor charged the Chairmen to manage public resources prudently, avoid vanity projects, and prioritise initiatives that directly improve security, livelihoods, and the dignity of citizens.
He emphasised that prompt payment of salaries and staff welfare is non-negotiable, while discipline and productivity must be restored in local government administration.
On accountability, the Acting Governor stressed that local councils must operate with openness and transparency, encouraging citizen engagement and public scrutiny.
Alhaji Umar Kadafur also directed Chairmen to reside and work within their respective Local Government Areas, warning against absentee leadership.
The Acting Governor further called on the Chairmen to uphold the rule of law, work closely with security agencies and traditional institutions, and remain vigilant against illegal mining and deforestation, which threaten the environment and livelihoods of communities.
Kadafur tasked the Ministry for Local Government and Emirate Affairs with strict supervision of local councils and used the occasion to commend the immediate past Chairmen for their dedication and service.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Hon. Sugun Mai Mele, highlighted the significance of the state’s decision to grant financial autonomy to Local Governments, describing it as a bold reform that has strengthened grassroots governance.
Hon Sugun Mai Mele cautioned that financial autonomy comes with increased responsibility, noting that all expenditures must strictly follow financial regulations, procurement laws, budgetary provisions, and legislative approvals.
He urged the Chairmen to take the lead in initiating and executing impactful projects, rather than relying solely on state funded interventions.
In his vote of thanks, the Chairman of Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) and ALGON Chairman, Hon. Ali Umar Bolori, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah and the Governor for the confidence reposed in the Chairmen.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Hon. Bolori pledged that the Chairmen would serve with honesty, fairness, and dedication, and align fully with the Governor’s development agenda.
He particularly appreciated the extension of Local Government tenure from two to three years, describing it as a strategic decision that would enhance planning and delivery of sustainable development at the grassroots.
The ceremony was attended by Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Hon Satomi Ahmad,APC Party Chairman, SSG, HOS, COS ,Special Advisers,STA,SSA,government officials, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, security agencies, and APC Party stakeholders and Supporters among others.
Kadafur Swears In 27 Newly Elected Local Government Chairmen in Borno
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