The Federal Government has reiterated the urgent need for collaboration among stakeholders to curb human rights abuses in the country.

The Solicitor-General of the Federation (SGF) and permanent secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Beatrice Jeddy-Agba gave the charge at the first universities’ human rights summit held in Abuja on Monday.

The project christen, ” Guardians of Dignity,” was organised by Sterling Law Centre (SLC) and supported by the Federal Ministry of Justice; National Human Rights Commission ( NHRC); United Nations (UN), and the Committee Against Torture (CAT).

The SGF while appealing for the urgent need for collective responsibility in advancing human rights in Nigeria, added that the Anti-torture Act, 2017 stands as a beacon of hope and a great legislative tool that empowers to combat torture and its insidious presence in the society.

Jeddy-Agba said: “The fight against torture is not a solitary endeavour; it is a collective march toward justice. As Guardians and protectors of human rights, let us stand united, resolute in our commitment to a world where every individual is treated with respect, dignity, and compassion.”

In a remark, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Tony Ojukwu (SAN) charged the youth to become defenders of human rights, as the future of human rights rests on them.

Ojukwu said: “This summit is not just a gathering; it is a call to action. Today, we challenge the brilliant minds in this room to become the new generation of human rights defenders. The future of human rights advocacy rests in your hands.”

According to the Executive Director of Sterling Law Centre, Deji Ajare, the summit is aimed at deepening the knowledge of human rights among youths in the country.

The summit which is aimed at improving youth awareness on human right issues has other components aimed at improving human right issues.