Nigeria, UN Strengthen Partnership on Human Rights, Victims’ Rights Advocacy

By Harriet Tornguvan 

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding international humanitarian law and ensuring strict compliance with global human rights standards in all military operations.

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd) OFR, gave the assurance during a diplomatic engagement with the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Victims’ Rights Advocate, Ms. Najla Nassif Palma, and her delegation at Ship House, Abuja.

General Musa said Nigeria remains committed to strengthening mechanisms that promote accountability, justice, and protection of victims’ rights, particularly in addressing unresolved issues linked to past international peacekeeping missions.

He assured the visiting UN team of the government’s readiness to maintain a transparent and effective communication channel aimed at resolving long-standing paternity claims arising from Nigeria’s participation in legacy peacekeeping operations in Liberia.

The Minister explained that the framework being developed by the Federal Government would provide a pathway for addressing historical concerns and bringing closure to affected individuals who have waited for decades.

In her remarks, Ms. Palma highlighted that 42 legacy cases are currently under review and appealed for continued cooperation from the Nigerian government to ensure justice and closure for the victims.

She noted that some individuals affected by the cases have expressed interest in obtaining Nigerian citizenship, stressing the importance of collaboration between the United Nations and Nigerian authorities in resolving the matters.

At the end of the engagement, both parties agreed to deepen cooperation through specialised training programmes, joint workshops, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening human rights protection within the operational framework of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The partnership, according to officials, is expected to further enhance Nigeria’s commitment to international standards and promote greater accountability in military and peacekeeping operations.