Nigeria has pledged to promote balanced attention to human rights, including economic development, education and healthcare, during its forthcoming membership of the UN Human Rights Council.

The country outlined its priorities during the General Assembly’s Third Committee consideration of international human rights issues, providing an indication of its priorities in the newly secured Human Rights Council term.

Nigeria’s representative, Bola Asaju, spoke following a briefing by UN high commissioner for human rights Volker Türk. The delegation thanked UN member states for supporting Nigeria’s election to the Human Rights Council for the 2027-2029 term.

The delegation said Nigeria would promote dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect during its three-year membership. The country also pledged to encourage practical assistance enabling governments to implement their international human rights commitments.

Nigeria restated that economic, social and cultural rights must receive attention alongside civil and political rights. It specifically identified the right to development as an important priority for developing countries.

The delegation maintained that poverty and inadequate access to education, healthcare and other essential services undermine the enjoyment of fundamental rights. It argued that international human rights discussions should recognise the relationship between economic opportunities, social protection and individual freedoms.

Nigeria also expressed support for reforms aimed at improving the efficiency of the international human rights system. However, it insisted that institutional reforms must remain transparent, inclusive and accessible to developing countries.

The delegation warned against arrangements that could disadvantage smaller diplomatic missions or restrict their participation in international human rights processes. It acknowledged the financial pressures confronting UN human rights institutions and supported efforts to eliminate unnecessary duplication.

Nigeria also reaffirmed its support for the Universal Periodic Review, which examines the human rights records of UN member states. The delegation described the mechanism as an important platform for cooperation and the exchange of recommendations.

It maintained that countries require adequate technical assistance to translate accepted recommendations into improvements in domestic laws, institutions and public services.

Nigeria consequently encouraged the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to strengthen technical cooperation with interested governments. It also advocated stronger national institutions capable of implementing human rights obligations in accordance with national priorities.

(NAN)