The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Chief Tony Ojukwu, has called on law students across Nigeria to become fearless defenders of human rights and the rule of law, describing both as indispensable pillars of a just, democratic and progressive society.
Ojukwu made the call during an educational visit by students of the Faculty of Law, University of Jos, to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja. He was represented by the NHRC’s Director of Human Rights Education and Promotion, Mrs. Agharase Arase.
Addressing the students, the NHRC boss urged aspiring legal practitioners to deploy their legal knowledge and skills in protecting the rights of vulnerable and marginalized persons while contributing to the strengthening of democratic governance and access to justice in Nigeria.
He commended the University of Jos for organising the visit, describing it as a valuable initiative that bridges the gap between classroom learning and practical institutional experience.
According to him, such engagements expose students to the practical realities of law, justice and human rights protection, while deepening their understanding of the role of national institutions in safeguarding fundamental rights.
Ojukwu explained that the NHRC, established under the National Human Rights Commission Act, 2010 (as amended), is mandated to promote, protect and enforce human rights in line with the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s regional and international human rights obligations.
He said the Commission receives and investigates complaints of human rights violations, monitors the human rights situation across the country, conducts public enlightenment and human rights education, and undertakes policy advocacy and research. He added that the Commission also collaborates with government agencies, civil society organisations and international partners to strengthen human rights protection nationwide.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who also serve as President of the Network of National Human Rights Institutions in West Africa (NNHRI-WA), urged the students to uphold the highest ethical standards in the legal profession.
He stressed that the practice of law is a noble calling that demands honesty, courage, fairness and an unwavering commitment to justice.
“The future of Nigeria’s justice system depends largely on the values embraced by the next generation of legal professionals,” he said, encouraging the students to defend the rule of law, promote accountability and speak out against injustice.
Ojukwu reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with universities and other academic institutions to promote human rights education, research and civic awareness among young Nigerians.
He also encouraged the students to take full advantage of the educational excursion, expressing confidence that the knowledge and practical exposure gained would enrich their academic pursuits and inspire them to become outstanding advocates for human rights and the rule of law.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Director of Legal Research and Law Clinic, University of Jos, Mr. Nandel James Dayil, thanked the Commission for the warm reception and enlightening engagement.
Dayil described the promotion and protection of human rights as a collective responsibility and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to supporting initiatives that advance justice, human rights education and the rule of law in Nigeria.
The visit featured interactive sessions between the students and NHRC officials, offered participants practical insights into the Commission’s mandate, operations and its critical role in promoting, protecting and enforcing human rights across the country.
