The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Tony Ojukwu, has declared that women’s rights are fundamental human entitlements and not concessions granted by men.
Ojukwu made the assertion while speaking at a sideline event during the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) held in New York City. He emphasized that women across the world are demanding their rights not privileges and called on men to actively support gender equity.
The event, organized by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, brought together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for advancing gender equality. Ojukwu stressed that true justice requires inclusiveness, insisting that women must be part of decision-making processes.
“You cannot talk about women without having them at the table,” he said.
Highlighting internal reforms, the Chief Human Rights Officer disclosed that the Commission has adopted a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment and has significantly improved women’s representation in leadership, with women now occupying 10 out of 15 director-level positions.
According to him, creating safe and empowering environments for women enhances performance and productivity, adding that economic support and sustained awareness are critical in addressing gender-based violence.
Other notable Nigerian participants at the event included the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and the Wife of the Ooni of Ife, Temitope Ogunwusi.
The engagement reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to promoting gender equality and strengthening partnerships aimed at advancing justice and inclusive development.
