Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has praised the Federal Government for its efforts in constructing and completing Human Rights Commission (NHRC) offices in various states across Nigeria.
Speaking on Monday at the commissioning of the Kebbi State NHRC office in Birnin Kebbi, Idris emphasized that the initiative reflects President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening human rights protections nationwide.
FG’s Commitment to Human Rights Protection
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Bala-Tafida, Governor Idris acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Minister of Justice, the NHRC Chairperson, and the Executive Secretary in ensuring that the commission has a fully equipped office in Kebbi.
“We commend the Federal Government, particularly the Minister of Justice, the NHRC leadership, and all stakeholders for making this a reality.
My administration will further support this initiative by ensuring that the office is connected to the national grid and provided with an operational vehicle to facilitate its activities,” Idris stated.
As part of his commitment to human rights protection, Idris also announced the appointment of an NHRC staff member as Special Adviser on Human Rights Protection and Enforcement.
FG Ensures NHRC’s Independence
Speaking at the event, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), reaffirmed the Federal Government’s stance on non-interference in NHRC affairs.
“Since this administration began, we have not interfered with the independence of the NHRC. We firmly believe in promoting and protecting the human rights of Nigerians.
Our goal is to provide a strong foundation for the commission to function without restrictions,” Fagbemi stated.
He added that the commissioning of the Kebbi NHRC office is a bold step towards reinforcing the commission’s operational independence and ensuring that the rights of Nigerians are fully protected.
NHRC Expands Its Reach
In her remarks, Dr. Salamatu Suleiman, Chairperson of the NHRC Governing Council, revealed that nine new NHRC offices have been completed nationwide, thanks to support from the National Assembly and the Budget Office of the Federation.
“The Kebbi NHRC office is one of the projects completed so far. Others will be awarded as funds become available.
We urge the National Assembly and the Budget Office to allocate more resources to enhance our ability to safeguard human rights across the country,” she stated.
Suleiman also called for additional funding to complete the remaining 22 NHRC state offices, establish a human rights protection fund, and amend the NHRC Act to reflect global human rights standards.
NHRC’s Mandate: A Moral Imperative
NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, emphasized that the commission’s core mission is to promote, protect, and enforce human rights across Nigeria.
“This mandate is not just a legal obligation; it is a moral imperative. We are committed to ensuring that dignity, freedom, and justice are the foundations of our national life,” Ojukwu stated.
With the commissioning of the Kebbi NHRC office, the Federal Government is making strides in institutionalizing human rights protection across Nigeria.
As more offices are completed, citizens will have greater access to justice and protection against human rights violations.
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