The quest to strengthen Nigeria’s human rights architecture yesterday gathered as stakeholders backed proposed amendments to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Act at a public hearing in the House of Representatives.
The executive secretary of the NHRC, Dr Tony Ojukwu, said the National Human Rights Commission Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2025, would deepen the commission’s independence, enhance oversight of detention facilities and secure sustainable funding through a structured National Human Rights Fund.
He noted that the bill also formalises the National Preventive Mechanism within the Commission and provides legal backing for Nigeria’s National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights. The proposal further requires that the executive secretary be appointed from within the commission’s directorate cadre to ensure institutional continuity and professionalism.
On the Human Rights Defenders Protection Bill, 2024, Ojukwu said the legislation would safeguard activists and advocates facing threats while defending others.
The speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Hon. Useni Jalo, reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, while the United Nations resident and humanitarian coordinator in Nigeria expressed support, noting the reforms would align Nigeria more closely with global standards.
However, a representative of the attorney-general of the federation argued that rather than enacting new laws, priority should be given to strengthening and effectively implementing existing legal frameworks.
The stakeholders agreed that enhancing the NHRC’s legal and institutional framework remains critical to advancing accountability and protecting citizens’ rights.
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