The National Human Rights Commission has called for enhanced collaboration among government institutions, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of Nigeria’s National Action Plan for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights (2024–2028).
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Tony Ojukwu, made the call on Wednesday during a state consultative meeting held at the Federal Secretariat, Ikolaba, Ibadan, Oyo State.
Ojukwu, who was represented by the Oyo State Coordinator of the NHRC, Abayomi Ogundele, stressed that achieving the goals of the National Action Plan would depend largely on cooperation among Ministries, Departments and Agencies as well as non-state actors.
He explained that the National Action Plan was developed in line with global human rights standards, particularly the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action adopted at the 1993 World Conference on Human Rights in Austria.
According to him, Nigeria’s commitment to the framework reflects its obligation to uphold fundamental rights guaranteed under both domestic and international law.
“The framework represents Nigeria’s commitment to promoting and protecting fundamental human rights in line with constitutional, regional and international obligations,” he said.
Ojukwu noted that despite clearly defined roles for relevant institutions, implementation has continued to face challenges such as weak coordination, inconsistent reporting, and poor data management.
He emphasised that the consultative meeting was aimed at strengthening awareness and improving cooperation among stakeholders to bridge existing gaps.
“Your participation here today reflects a shared dedication to strengthening collaboration, deepening accountability, and ensuring that the principles of human dignity, justice and equality are upheld across all sectors of our society,” he stated.
He further explained that the National Action Plan serves as a guiding framework for addressing human rights concerns, promoting inclusivity, and responding to emerging challenges across sectors.
Ojukwu recalled that Nigeria’s first National Action Plan was implemented between 2009 and 2013, adding that the current 2024–2028 plan was developed after years of consultations involving government agencies and civil society groups.
According to him, the Ibadan meeting was convened to improve understanding of the framework, identify implementation gaps, and strengthen monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.
“This forum provides a platform to clarify roles and responsibilities, harmonise efforts across sectors, and strengthen synergy between government institutions and civil society organisations,” he added.
Also speaking at the meeting, a representative of a collaborating organisation, Cordelia Ojeah, stressed the need for sustained cooperation and accountability among stakeholders, noting that no single institution can protect human rights alone.
“The implementation of the National Action Plan requires collective responsibility. Government agencies, civil society organisations and other stakeholders must work together to ensure its success,” she said.
The meeting had in attendance representatives of government agencies, human rights groups, and civil society organisations, all of whom pledged support for improved coordination in the protection of human rights across Nigeria.
