The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed commitments to the promotion and protection of human rights globally, declaring its intention to seek membership of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2027–2029 term.
Speaking at the High-Level Segment of the 61st Session of the Council in Geneva, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, said the country’s candidature is anchored on sincerity, determination and a firm commitment to constructive engagement.
Tuggar stated that Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to multilateralism and the universality of human rights, guided by the principles of the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. He noted that fundamental rights and freedoms are guaranteed under Chapter IV of Nigeria’s Constitution.
The minister emphasized that Nigeria considers the Human Rights Council an indispensable platform for dialogue, prevention and cooperation, reaffirming full cooperation with its mechanisms as vital instruments for the global promotion and protection of human rights.
Addressing rising global insecurity, Tuggar said international peace and security were under siege, threatening democratic gains worldwide. He stressed that although such threats are global, Nigeria has strengthened efforts to protect the right to life and ensure citizens’ security, particularly safeguarding children’s right to safe education.
He highlighted the acceleration of Nigeria’s National Plan on Financing Safe Schools as part of efforts to secure learning environments. He also pointed to ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening accountability in internal security operations and mainstreaming international human rights and humanitarian standards, with a focus on civilian protection.
On religious freedom, the minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to Freedom of Religion or Belief, describing peaceful coexistence among faith communities as central to national unity. He pledged that every citizen, regardless of creed or tribe, would remain protected under the law.
Tuggar further referenced the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action, noting that the right to development and all human rights are interdependent and mutually reinforcing. Under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, he said Nigeria has embarked on bold economic and fiscal reforms to stabilize the economy, enhance transparency and expand National Social Investment Programmes to reach vulnerable populations.
He said government priorities include poverty reduction, food security and youth empowerment, with a strong focus on leveraging the digital economy to advance economic rights and create opportunities for young Nigerians.
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The minister also underscored the link between human rights and environmental protection, noting that climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable communities by threatening rights to food, water, health and livelihoods. He said Nigeria remains committed to advancing climate action anchored in human rights and sustainable development.
As Nigeria seeks election to the Council for the 2027–2029 term, Tuggar said the country stands ready to work with partners to advance peace, justice and sustainable development in Africa and beyond, describing Council membership as a profound responsibility to uphold universal values and protect human dignity worldwide.
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