The United Nations and the National Human Rights Commission have called for full implementation of the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

The calls were made in Abuja at a two-day workshop on National Dialogue on Business and Human Rights.

The National Human Rights Commission organises the workshop in partnership with the UN Human Rights Office, United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and the Government of Norway.

Nigeria had adopted the UN Guiding Principles into its National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights. By implementing the NAPBHR, Nigeria will stand as a trusted, investment-friendly economy.

In his remarks at the event, Mohamed Fall, UN resident and humanitarian coordinator in Nigeria, commended Nigeria for its efforts to prevent and address business-related human rights abuses.

He explained that the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights was a national commitment to protect human dignity, preserve the environment, and ensure economic progress benefits everyone.

Mr Fall said that by doing so, Nigeria would create a business environment that would attract responsible investment and foster inclusive prosperity.

According to him, human rights support sustainable business practices that deliver long-term value to society. They also make eminent business sense.

He commended the NHRC’s leadership in convening the dialogue. He further thanked the governments of the United Kingdom and Norway for their valuable support.

Similarly, the executive secretary of NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, explained that NAP-BHR was targeted at aligning the economic and business policies and practices with the UNGPs on Business and Human Rights.

He said the action plan provided a practical framework for government, businesses, and civil society to work together to prevent, mitigate, and remedy human rights abuses linked to business operations.

While declaring the workshop open, justice minister Lateef Fagbemi noted that the government was working hard to implement the action plan.

(NAN)