The NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (SAN), submitted at a high-level webinar on AI governance held at the NHRC headquarters in Abuja, in collaboration with the International Network for Corporate Social Responsibility (IN-CSR).
Ojukwu in his keynote address, described AI as an opportunity to expand the Commission’s mandate in the digital space, and not a threat.
He stressed the importance of aligning technological progress with the principles of dignity, equality, and justice.
“We are poised to chart a course that integrates our core human rights commitments with AI governance, ensuring that advancements in technology do not compromise fundamental rights,” Ojukwu stated.
He outlined a strategic approach to AI governance, advocating regulatory oversight to ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical compliance.
According to him, despite AI’s increasing sophistication, human oversight remains crucial in preventing ethical breaches and potential rights violations.
The Commission, he noted, has positioned itself as a bridge between government institutions, private sector players, academia, and civil society, fostering collaboration to develop inclusive AI policies.
Ojukwu said aligning AI governance with international human rights standards, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Nigeria’s National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights—remains a key priority.
To strengthen oversight, the NHRC has established a specialised unit under its Legal Services and Enforcement Department to monitor AI’s human rights impact and provide mechanisms for redress.
As AI becomes more embedded in daily life, Ojukwu underscored the need for Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) in AI development.
He urged tech companies to conduct thorough impact assessments, enforce compliance, and establish accessible grievance channels for individuals whose rights may be affected.
He also called for clear accountability measures for both public and private entities, warning that without robust oversight, AI could pose significant risks to fundamental rights.
Ojukwu urged policymakers, business leaders, and civil society actors to collaborate in shaping AI policies that prioritise human dignity.
He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that AI innovation does not come at the expense of fundamental human rights.
