By Haruna Aliyu, Birnin Kebbi

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expanded its presence in Northwestern Nigeria with the inauguration of a new office in Kebbi State and a call for vigilance against human rights abuses.

Following the office opening on Monday morning, the commission held a town hall meeting with stakeholders and civil society organizations to enhance their capacity to understand and address human rights issues.

The meeting, presided over by the Chairperson of the Commission, Dr. Salamatu Hussain Suleiman, was attended by the Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, and all governing council members.

In her address, Dr. Suleiman urged stakeholders to intensify efforts in combating gender-based violence, reducing the number of out-of-school children, and tackling insecurity. She emphasized that the NHRC serves as a vital institution for safeguarding citizens’ rights within the framework of the law.

She also called on parents to prioritize school enrollment, noting that education plays a key role in reducing crime rates in the region.

Dr. Ojukwu, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the NHRC, reiterated that human rights are fundamental and not privileges. He encouraged stakeholders to integrate human rights principles into their daily activities and to act as advocates for justice and protection.

Several speakers at the meeting urged the NHRC to maintain its strong stance against gender-based violence at home and in workplaces. They also called for strategic engagement with traditional and religious leaders to address the issue of out-of-school children.

Representatives from numerous civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) participated in the discussion.

Earlier in the day, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, inaugurated the new NHRC office complex in Birnin Kebbi. Located within the Kebbi State Secretariat Complex, the facility was constructed and furnished by the NHRC as part of its effort to establish a presence in all states across Nigeria.