The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in collaboration with Hope Behind Bars Africa, on Monday, July 21, 2025, commemorated the 2025 Nelson Mandela International Day with a transformative outreach to the Suleja Custodial Centre in Niger State.
Though the global Mandela Day is officially marked on July 18, the Commission observed the event on July 21 due to official scheduling. The outreach was themed “Uniting to Combat Poverty and Inequity,” with a sub-theme, “Upholding Mandela’s Legacy in Prisons.” The initiative aligned with the NHRC’s mandate to promote the rights and dignity of all persons, including inmates and pre-trial detainees.
During the visit, four indigent inmates were released after the NHRC and Hope Behind Bars Africa met their bail and fine conditions. Essential hygiene materials were also distributed to support inmates’ health and dignity. Custodial officers received sensitization on the Mandela Rules and Bangkok Rules, which set international standards for the treatment of prisoners, especially women. The NHRC’s National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) and human rights teams carried out on-site monitoring to assess detention conditions and recommend appropriate reforms.
Speaking during the outreach, NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu , reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to humane, rights-based correctional practices, stressed the need to eliminate overcrowding, unlawful detentions, and neglect of vulnerable inmates. He emphasized that custodial centres should be viewed as places for rehabilitation and reintegration, not despair. Dr. Ojukwu also encouraged the released inmates to make the most of their second chance and become responsible members of society.
The Commission appreciated the cooperation of the Nigerian Correctional Service at the Suleja Custodial Centre, acknowledged the steadfast commitment of Hope Behind Bars Africa in driving justice sector reforms, and commended media professionals who amplified the event’s impact through accurate reporting. The NHRC also recognized the efforts of its own legal officers, monitoring teams, and National Preventive Mechanism officials for ensuring the outreach was a success.
As the world reflects on the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela a man who spent 27 years in prison fighting for justice the NHRC restated its commitment to fairness, compassion, and systemic reform across Nigeria’s custodial centres.
