NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu SAN (Extreme left) followed by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Malick Fall and others at the 30th anniversary celebration and International Human Rights Day
The United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres has observed increasing aberrations and sustained curtailment of civic space globally, but insisted that there should be collective concerted efforts to confront the injustices.
António Guterres spoke as the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Nigeria marked its 30th year anniversary which coincided with the 2025 International Human Rights Day.
The UN Secretary General, whose address was presented by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Malick Fall, insisted that human rights should not be allowed to take a second place.
According to the UN Secretary General, “Human rights — civil, political, economic, social and cultural — are inalienable, indivisible and interdependent.
” But recent years have brought a shrinking of civic space. We have grave violations that signal a flagrant disregard for rights, and a callous indifference to human suffering.
“Together, we have the power to confront these injustices: by protecting the institutions that make human rights a lived reality.
“Every day, the United Nations helps people around the world realize their most basic rights. Together with civil society and governments, we deliver food and provide shelter; support education and elections; clear mines; defend the environment; empower women; and strive for peace.
“But we cannot do it alone. This work depends on all people, everywhere, taking a stand. When we protect the most vulnerable, when we refuse to look away, when we speak up for the institutions that speak up for us, we keep human rights alive.
‘Our rights should never take second place to profit or power. Let us unite to protect them, for the dignity and freedom of all.”
On his part, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu, noted that the celebration of this year’s Human Rights Day with a symbolic Walk for Human Rights was to amplify the sentiment of Freedom, Equality and Justice in Nigeria.
He said it was special as the Commission commemorates the 30th anniversary of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) established in 1995.
The occasion which was also used to recognize the Commission’s outstanding partners, Ojukwu noted was also ” a reaffirmation that, despite the challenges we face, from insecurity, Social; economic and Political problems, our commitment remains unwavering.”
According to Ojukwu, “The spirit of today’s gathering echoes the timeless message encapsulated in the promotion, protection and the enforcement of human rights of all in Nigeria.
“Our walk today, is not rooted in protest, but in unity. Not in anger, but with resolve to uphold human rights. Not as spectators, but as active participants in shaping a Nigeria where every right is protected, every voice matters, and no one is left behind in the promotion and protection of human rights.”
He solicited the continuing support by all saying that the task before the Commission cannot be done by the Commission alone.
” It must be carried out by each and every one of us, by staff of Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government, by persons working in the organized private sector of economy indeed by everyone in Nigeria”, he asserted.
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