Broadcast Media Africa has learnt that the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) recently restated its commitment towards establishing NHRC Radio and television stations in Nigeria.
The commission aims to promote and protect human rights across the country through this initiative. In a communique signed by the executive secretary/chief executive officer of the commission, Dr Tony Ojukwu (SAN) and the chairperson of the Governing Council of the NHRC, Dr Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman, it was revealed that the initiative aligns with Section 6(m)(n) of the NHRC Act 1995 as amended and also underscores the Council’s commitment to strengthening human rights advocacy nationwide.
During the February statutory council meeting held at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, the Council expressed deep concern over the prevailing insecurity problems in the country. They attributed activities such as armed banditry, kidnapping, youth unrest, herders’ invasion, and the destruction of farmlands as major threats to the security of citizens. In response to these challenges, the Council has recommended youth engagement through quality and vocational education, youth empowerment, establishing state police, and intensified human rights promotion and protection.
Furthermore, the Council advocated for the federal government to ensure free and compulsory education in Nigeria to alleviate poverty and empower the youth.
The Council recommended amending the 1999 Constitution to enforce citizens’ economic, social, and cultural rights, recognizing education as pivotal to realizing these rights and achieving sustainable development goals. Council members also paid a scheduled courtesy call to the Director General of the National Broadcasting Commission as part of their efforts to establish NHRC Radio and television outfits to promote human rights in Nigeria.
