The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched a 10-month structured capacity-building programme aimed at strengthening the protection and enforcement of human rights across Nigeria.

Executive Secretary of the Commission, Tony Ojukwu, SAN disclosed the initiative on Monday in Abuja at the opening of a two-day workshop for the commission’s investigation and legal officers.

The training, which focuses on concept development and report writing, signals the start of a broader institutional reform drive targeted at improving the handling of economic, social and cultural rights (ESCR) complaints.

Ojukwu, represented by  Igoma Nwosa from the economic, cultural and social department in the commission said the programme is designed to equip personnel with critical technical skills needed to effectively investigate and resolve cases involving key rights such as housing, healthcare, education, labour, food, water and sanitation.

The Executive secretary stressed that addressing violations in these areas requires rigorous analysis, clear documentation, and well-structured reporting.

The NHRC boss noted that the initiative follows recent restructuring within the Commission’s ESCR Department, which has expanded the scope of responsibilities for its officers.

“Our capacity must keep pace with our mandate. This training is a critical step in that direction,” he said.

He explained that the programme is in line with the Commission’s statutory mandate under the NHRC Act, which empowers it to organise training and advocacy initiatives to promote and protect human rights.

Ojukwu added that the effort underscores the Commission’s renewed focus on staff development and institutional efficiency.

He also commended the resource persons for their commitment and urged participants to actively engage and apply the knowledge gained to enhance service delivery.

Expressing confidence in the outcome, Ojukwu said the programme would produce a more skilled and responsive cadre of officers capable of making a measurable impact on human rights protection in the country.

“The work of this Department directly affects the lives of Nigerians, and your effectiveness is crucial,” he said.

The workshop, which runs from March 30 to 31 at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, is expected to lay the foundation for a sustained capacity-building initiative aimed at transforming Nigeria’s human rights landscape.