NHRC Warns Of Deepening Inequality, Urges Urgent Social Protection Reforms

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sounded the alarm over worsening socio-economic pressures in the country, calling for urgent and coordinated social protection measures to safeguard citizens’ rights and promote inclusive development.

The Commission’s Executive Secretary, Tony Ojukwu, made the call in Abuja to mark the 2026 World Day of Social Justice, stressing that Nigeria’s quest for development would remain elusive without a firm commitment to equity, human dignity and effective safety nets.

According to Ojukwu, social justice is a fundamental driver of social stability and economic progress, warning that rising insecurity, inflation, youth unemployment and climate-related displacements are placing vulnerable populations at heightened risk.

He urged governments at all levels to deploy responsive policies that address the plight of unemployed youths, internally displaced persons, victims of administrative injustice, survivors of gender-based violence and persons with disabilities, as well as those facing emerging digital rights violations in the artificial intelligence era.

Describing poverty as a “grave human rights violation,” the NHRC boss said recent economic shocks, including fuel subsidy removal and currency depreciation, have significantly eroded the purchasing power of low-income households, thereby widening inequality and social exclusion.

“Robust social safety nets are indispensable to cushion the harsh economic realities confronting millions of Nigerians and to prevent deeper marginalisation,” he said.

Ojukwu also expressed concern over growing ethnic and regional tensions, urging inclusive dialogue and equitable resource distribution among states to strengthen national cohesion. He noted that fair federalism remains key to reducing feelings of marginalisation and building lasting unity in Nigeria.

He further encouraged citizens to utilise the Commission’s complaint and redress mechanisms to seek justice for rights violations, reminding authorities that the primary obligation of government is the welfare and security of the people.

The NHRC chief also called for sustained enforcement of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, stressing that accessible public infrastructure, braille signage and inclusive digital platforms are essential to guaranteeing equal participation and enjoyment of rights for persons with disabilities.

He described the 2026 commemoration as a critical wake-up call for stakeholders to prioritise social protection and uphold human rights as pillars of sustainable national development.