The National Human Rights Commission has called on the federal government to strengthen social protection mechanisms and expand universal access to basic essential services.

In a statement on independence day, the executive secretary of the NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, said this. He also called on public institutions to actively deepen public trust by demonstrating absolute transparency, accountability, and highly responsive governance.

Mr Ojukwu commended the resilience, creativity and determination of Nigerians in the face of the country’s social, economic and political challenges.

“The commission calls on government at all levels, security agencies, public institutions and citizens to place human dignity, equality and justice at the centre of the nation’s journey from reforms to stability and shared prosperity,” he said.

Reflecting on the national theme, ‘From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity’, he said the success of reforms must ultimately be measured by their impact on the lives, rights and dignity of ordinary Nigerians.

“Economic growth and national development would be sustainable only when the benefits of progress are broadly shared, and vulnerable and disadvantaged groups are protected from disproportionate hardship. Law enforcement and security agencies should uphold professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights in the discharge of their responsibilities,” he said.

He stressed that protecting national security must go hand in hand with protecting fundamental rights.

Mr Ojukwu restated the importance of the rule of law, an independent and effective justice system, and meaningful access to justice. He added that this is particularly important for indigent persons with disabilities, women, children, internally displaced persons and other vulnerable groups.

Mr Ojukwu urged citizens to remain committed to peaceful coexistence, civic responsibility and respect for the rights of others. He also recognised the contributions of civil society organisations, the media, and human rights defenders to strengthening democracy, accountability, and the protection of fundamental freedoms.

He noted that an open and vibrant civic space is essential to sustainable national development.

“As Nigeria moves forward, we reaffirm our commitment to work with government institutions, security agencies, civil society, the media, development partners and citizens to promote and protect human rights and strengthen the culture of accountability,” he said.

Mr Ojukwu noted that the transition from reforms to lasting stability requires more than economic transformation.