The Nigerian Government has reiterated its commitment to ensure that the rights of its citizens and foreigners living in the country are protected.
Minister of Justice and the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami gave the assurance at the inauguration of the 5th Governing Council of the National Human Rights Commission in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
According to the Minister, the National Human Rights Commission was established in fulfillment of its international obligation.
’’As you are aware, the Commission was established by the Nigerian Government in 1995 in fulfillment of its international obligation pursuant to 20th December 1993 Resolution 48/134 of the United Nations General Assembly that enjoined all member States to establish National Human Rights Institutions for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights’,’ he said.
Malami said; “All these measures have been taken to ensure that the Commission is able to advise the government properly in the fulfillment of its international human rights obligations and protect and promote the human rights of Nigerians and persons living in Nigeria without fear or favour in line with the Paris Principles.’’
The Chairperson, of the Governing Council of the Commission, Dr. Salamatu Suleiman said nations were judged by their human rights record hence, she is ready to provide the necessary leadership that would enable the Commission actualize its vision and mission.
Improved welfare
She also appealed to the government for an improved welfare for the staff of the National Human Commission.
’’It is unhealthy and something of shame for the staff of the Council to be poached by Non-Governmental Organisations, NGOs, because they were badly remunerated’’ Dr Suleiman stated.
Meanwhile the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Tony Ojukwu said poor funding was one of major obstacles hindering the Commission from carrying out its mandates.
Mr. Ojukwu said that despite some challenges, ”the commission is accredited with ‘A Status’ by the Global Alliance for National Human Rights Institutions, GANHRI, the world umbrella body of Human Rights Institution.”
’’The Human Rights Commission in Nigeria is recognized as a bastion for the protection and the promotion of human rights’’ he said.
Mr. Ojukwu also appreciated the efforts of the support given the Commission by its development partners from 2016 to date.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
