Nigeria has officially announced its bid for a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the upcoming 2027–2029 term.
In a video statement, Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar emphasized the significance of the council as a crucial platform for dialogue, the prevention of conflicts, and international cooperation concerning human rights. He affirmed Nigeria's readiness to fully engage with the council’s mechanisms, which are instrumental in promoting and safeguarding human rights worldwide.
Tuggar elaborated on the actions being undertaken by the federal government to enhance human rights protections domestically, such as funding safe school initiatives and fortifying security in educational facilities amidst prevailing security issues.
"While no country is immune, Nigeria's experiences have significantly bolstered our commitment to upholding the right to life and ensuring the safety of all citizens, especially children whose right to a secure learning environment is an essential priority," he stated. "In this regard, we are expediting the national financing plan for schools, making essential investments to secure educational settings."
He further mentioned how Nigeria is enhancing accountability through reforms and cooperating regionally and internationally to ensure that human rights and humanitarian principles are incorporated into internal security efforts, particularly with an emphasis on protecting civilians.
The Minister reiterated Nigeria's dedication to upholding freedom of religion and belief, asserting that peaceful coexistence among diverse faith communities is vital for national unity. "Nigeria is steadfast in establishing a society where every individual, regardless of their faith or ethnicity, is safeguarded by the justice system," he remarked.
Tuggar also referred to the ongoing economic reforms, social investment initiatives, and the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy as strategies aimed at promoting development and ensuring long-term stability.
Additionally, he connected the concepts of human rights and environmental sustainability, noting that strategies for climate adaptation and related initiatives are grounded in principles of human rights and sustainable development.
Previously, Nigeria participated in the UNHRC until 2020, having been re- elected for the term from 2018 to 2020. Council members are chose each year for three-year terms on a rotational basis. Among the countries recently elected for the 2026–2028 period are Angola, Egypt, Mauritius, and South Africa.
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