The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on the Federal Government to strengthen social protection mechanisms and expand universal access to essential basic services as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr Tony Ojukwu, SAN, made the call in an Independence Day statement, stressing the need for government institutions to promote transparency, accountability and responsive governance to strengthen public trust.
Ojukwu commended Nigerians for their resilience, creativity and determination in navigating the country’s social, economic and political challenges.
“The commission calls on government at all levels, security agencies, public institutions and citizens to place human dignity, equality and justice at the centre of the nation’s journey from reforms to stability and shared prosperity,” he said.
Reflecting on the national theme, “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity,” Ojukwu said the success of government reforms should ultimately be measured by their impact on the lives, rights and dignity of ordinary Nigerians.
More Read
According to him, economic growth and national development can only be sustainable when the benefits of progress are broadly shared and vulnerable and disadvantaged groups are protected from disproportionate hardship.
He also urged law enforcement and security agencies to uphold professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights in the discharge of their responsibilities.
“Law enforcement and security agencies should uphold professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights in the discharge of their responsibilities,” he said.
More Read
Ojukwu stressed that protecting national security must go hand in hand with safeguarding the fundamental rights of citizens.
He further emphasised the importance of the rule of law, an independent and effective justice system, and meaningful access to justice, particularly for indigent persons, persons with disabilities, women, children, internally displaced persons and other vulnerable groups.
The NHRC executive secretary also urged Nigerians to remain committed to peaceful coexistence, civic responsibility and respect for the rights of others.
He acknowledged the contributions of civil society organisations, the media and human rights defenders to strengthening democracy, promoting accountability and protecting fundamental freedoms.
Ojukwu noted that an open and vibrant civic space remained essential to sustainable national development.
“As Nigeria moves forward, we reaffirm our commitment to work with government institutions, security agencies, civil society, the media, development partners and citizens to promote and protect human rights and strengthen the culture of accountability,” he said.
More Read
He added that Nigeria’s transition from economic reforms to lasting stability would require more than economic transformation, stressing the need for inclusive governance, respect for human rights and policies that protect the dignity and welfare of every Nigerian.
