NHRC calls for enhanced inter‑agency cooperation on human rights

On Wednesday, the National Human Rights Commission urged greater 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 before 2028.

NHRC Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu delivered the appeal during a state consultative meeting on the implementation of the NAP 2024–2028, which took place at the Federal Secretariat, Ikolaba, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Speaking through the commission’s Oyo State Coordinator, Abayomi Ogundele, Ojukwu said the plan’s success would largely depend on synergy among ministries, departments and agencies and civil‑society groups.

He explained that the NAP was drafted in accordance with the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action, adopted at the 1993 World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna, Austria.

He stated, “The framework represents Nigeria’s commitment to promoting and protecting fundamental human rights in line with constitutional, regional and international obligations.”

The executive secretary noted that, despite clearly defined institutional responsibilities, challenges such as inconsistent reporting, weak data collection and poor inter‑agency coordination continue to impede effective implementation.

Ojukwu said, “Your participation here today (Wednesday) 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.

“The National Action Plan is a guiding document for the promotion and protection of human rights in Nigeria. It represents a collective commitment by government institutions and non