The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of Nigeria has issued a clarion call to all citizens, emphasizing that the pursuit of human rights is a collective endeavor, a shared responsibility that transcends governmental boundaries and encompasses private individuals, organizations, and businesses. This appeal comes amidst growing concerns about the escalating human rights violations across the country and the NHRC’s struggle to adequately address these issues due to funding constraints. The commission has specifically highlighted the Human Rights Fund, established to bolster its initiatives, lamenting its current dormancy and the absence of any financial contributions. The NHRC’s leadership argues that a collaborative approach, where private entities supplement governmental efforts, is crucial to effectively combat the pervasive human rights challenges facing Nigeria.
The NHRC’s plea for collective action underscores the magnitude of the human rights situation in the country. While acknowledging the government’s role and current efforts, the commission stresses the need for a more robust and comprehensive response. The financial burden of protecting and promoting human rights should not fall solely on the government’s shoulders. The private sector, with its significant resources, has a crucial role to play in supplementing governmental efforts and ensuring the NHRC has the necessary resources to effectively discharge its mandate. This call for partnership echoes the global understanding of human rights as a universal concern requiring collective action from all stakeholders.
The NHRC’s Executive Secretary, Tony Ojukwu, SAN, emphasized the practical implications of this funding deficiency, pointing to the commission’s inability to effectively address the rising tide of human rights violations without adequate resources. He reiterated that while the government plays a crucial role, its efforts alone are insufficient. He called on private individuals and corporations to contribute to the Human Rights Fund, emphasizing that contributions could take various forms beyond monetary donations, including equipment, vehicles, and other essential resources. This broadened scope of potential contributions aims to encourage wider participation and accommodate the varying capacities of potential donors.
Ojukwu’s appeal highlights a critical aspect of resource mobilization – the diversity of contributions. While financial support is undoubtedly essential, the NHRC recognizes the value of in-kind donations. Equipment such as computers, laptops, and vehicles are crucial for the commission’s operational effectiveness, enabling its staff to conduct investigations, monitor human rights situations, and provide timely interventions. Similarly, contributions of facilities, furniture, and other office supplies can significantly improve the commission’s working environment and enhance its overall capacity to address human rights issues. This multifaceted approach to resource mobilization reflects a pragmatic understanding of the operational challenges facing the commission.
Dr. Salamatu Suleiman, Chairperson of the Governing Council of the NHRC, broadened the scope of the discussion beyond resource mobilization, emphasizing the need for a continuous engagement with human rights principles. She stressed that commemorating human rights should not be confined to International Human Rights Day but should be an ongoing commitment reflected in daily actions and policies. This call for sustained engagement underscores the importance of integrating human rights into the fabric of society, ensuring that its principles are not merely celebrated on a specific day but are woven into the very essence of social interactions and governance.
Furthermore, Dr. Suleiman connected the fight for human rights to the issue of education, particularly for out-of-school children. She argued that providing education for these vulnerable populations is essential for societal progress and the reduction of social vices. By equipping children with knowledge and skills, they are better positioned to make informed decisions, resist exploitation, and contribute positively to their communities. This focus on education highlights the interconnectedness of various human rights and the importance of addressing underlying social issues to create a more just and equitable society. Investing in education is not merely an act of charity but a strategic investment in human capital and a vital step towards ensuring a future where human rights are respected and protected for all.
