Chidimma Uchegbu -Abuja
As National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) celebrates its 30 years anniversary, the Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, has said the Commission’s work is not rooted in protest but in unity; not in anger, but in a resolute commitment to uphold human rights.
The Executive Secretary made this statement at the event to mark the 2025 International Human Rights Day celebration held at the NHRC’s headquarters in Abuja stressing that we are not detectors but active participants in shaping a Nigeria where every right is protected, every voice matters, and no one is left behind.
According to him, he did not only mark the global observance of this year’s human rights day, but the 30th anniversary of the Commission’s establishment in 1995 which serves as a reminder that human rights flourish in communities that embrace harmony, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.
Further , he stressed that human rights are essential for accessing food, healthcare, education, and shelter.
He encouraged citizens to mainstream human rights into every level of policy and work in the government, emphasizing that without these rights, societal progress is unattainable.
In his words, he said, “We are not detectors but active participants in shaping a Nigeria where every right is protected, every voice matters, and no one is left behind,
“As the NHRC celebrates three decades of impactful work, the call to action resonates: let us continue to dream, act, and stand firm in our collective efforts, ensuring that freedom, equality, and justice become the heritage of every Nigerian.”
Dr. Ojukwu called on all and sundry Nigerians, including the organized private sector, civil society, and the media to join in the effort and collectively commit to the mandate that has guided the Commission for these 30 years, saying, together, they can build a nation where human rights are not just inspirational ideals but daily realities.
In his remarks, the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, expressed the Body’s support to the NHRC, government and communities in strengthening the rule of law, expanded access to justice, ending violence, among others.
While urging the Commission to continue to do more, Antonio Guterres, represented by Mr. Mohamed Malick Fall, lamented that many families still struggle under the shadow of violence, “persons with disabilities denied full responsibility of participation, communities facing climate change while children are unable to go to school safely.”
Antonio Guterres said the world has recently experienced great violation that has signaled total disregard to life, “but together we have the right to confront this injustice by protecting the institution that makes human rights a living reality.”
The highpoint of the event includes the recognition and presentation of awards for outstanding partnership with NHRC.
The NHRC began the 2025 International Human Rights Day celebration with an awareness walk from the Eagle Square to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
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