The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, has warned that Nigeria’s progress in human rights protection is being strained by worsening insecurity, economic pressures and political tensions, even as the Commission celebrates 30 years of existence.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday during the Commission’s 30th anniversary and the 2025 International Human Rights Day event, Ojukwu said the milestone offers both a moment of reflection and a renewed call to action for the nation.

He noted that since its establishment in 1995, the NHRC has served as “a guardian of human dignity” but insists that the struggle for freedom, equality and justice in Nigeria remains far from over.

“This celebration is both a journey and a reaffirmation,” he said. “A journey that began with a vision for a Nigeria rooted in the principles of Freedom, Equality and Justice, and a reaffirmation that despite the challenges we face, from insecurity to social, economic and political problems, our commitment remains unwavering.”

The event, which was marked by a symbolic “Walk for Human Rights,” drew human rights defenders, civil society groups, development partners and government representatives.

Ojukwu described the walk as a national statement of unity and a refusal to allow human rights setbacks to become normalised.

“Our walk today is not rooted in protest, but in unity,” he stressed. “Not in anger, but in resolve. We are active participants in shaping a Nigeria where every right is protected, every voice matters, and no one is left behind.”

A major highlight of the celebration was the Commission’s recognition of outstanding partners who have supported its work over the decades.

The NHRC executive secretary described the awards as a tribute to individuals and institutions whose courage and consistency have helped sustain Nigeria’s human rights ecosystem.

“As Nigeria’s National Human Rights Institution, we recommit ourselves to the mandate that has guided us for 30 years,” Ojukwu declared, noting that the responsibility for promoting and protecting rights goes beyond the Commission.

“The task cannot be done by the Commission alone,” he emphasised. “It must be carried out by everyone, government ministries and agencies, the private sector, and all citizens.”

Ojukwu urged Nigerians to build communities anchored on peace, mutual respect and coexistence, insisting that human rights can only thrive where society deliberately nurtures fairness and justice.

“As we celebrate 30 years of the NHRC, we do so with gratitude for the past, responsibility for the present, and hope for a future where Freedom, Equality and Justice are the heritage of everyone in Nigeria,” he stated.