Wednesday, December 10, 2025 was a day of triple events joined-in-one, for the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), as its management and staff gathered together with dozens of non-governmental organisations, civil society groups, charity foundations and other partners, to end 16-Day activism, mark the 2025 International Human Rights Day and celebrate 30th anniversary of the Commission’s establishment.

The events commenced at the Eagle Square Abuja with a Human Rights walk that took participants- which included activists and human rights activists, through part of Shehu Shagari Way, Maitama, Aminu Kano Crescent Wuse 2 and Transcorp Hilton route, down to the NHRC secretariat where the main activities commenced in earnest.

In a welcome address, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, Executive Secretary/CEO of the Commission, said the symbolic walk for Human Rights, which kick-started the day, was aimed at amplifying the sentiment of freedom, equality and justice in Nigeria.

He said the 2025 event was a special one as it commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Commission, therefore a celebration of three decades of service to humanity since 1995.

Ojukwu said the event was also special as it affords the Commission the opportunity to recognize outstanding partners that have supported its work over the past years and described it as both a journey and a reaffirmation.

He said- “A journey that began normatively in 1995 with a vision for a Nigeria rooted in the principles of Freedom, Equality and Justice. It is also a reaffirmation that, despite the challenges we face, from insecurity, Social; economic and Political problems, our commitment remains unwavering.

“The spirit of today’s gathering echoes the timeless message encapsulated in the promotion, protection and the enforcement of human rights of all in Nigeria. Our walk today, is not rooted in protest, but in unity; Not in anger, but with resolve to uphold human rights; Not as spectators, but as active participants in shaping a Nigeria where every right is protected, every voice matters, and no one is left behind in the promotion and protection of human rights.

“Our celebration today is a reminder that human rights flourish where communities embrace harmony, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.

“Moreover, the award to be given out today is a tribute to those who, through courage and consistency, have supported the cause of human rights, through the work of the Commission. Their support strengthens the Commission to continue its work with the belief that the work the Commission is doing is appreciated.”

Ojukwu pledged that NHRC would continue to execute the mandate that has guided it for 30 years, including to protect, promote, and enforce the rights of all persons in Nigeria, saying however that the task ahead cannot be done by the Commission alone but have to be carried out by ‘each and every one of us,’ including staff of Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government, persons working in the organized private sector of economy and, indeed by everyone in Nigeria.

He said that- “Together, let us build a nation where human rights are not aspirational ideals, but daily realities. Let us continue to dream, to act, and to stand firm, knowing that our collective effort is the engine that drives progress.

“As we celebrate 30 years of the National Human Rights Commission, 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,” the NHRC boss concluded.

In a speech read at the event, the Secretary General of the United Nations, António Guterres, said the Universal Declaration of Human Rights defined what every person needs to survive and thrive, adding that the declaration was a philosophical and political breakthrough that has been the bedrock of global community ever since.

He said further that human rights, which include civil, political, economic, social and cultural, are inalienable, indivisible and interdependent, saying recent years have brought a shrinking of civic space, therefore the grave violations that signal a flagrant disregard for rights, and a callous indifference to human suffering.

According to him, “Together, we have the power to confront these injustices: by protecting the institutions that make human rights a lived reality.

“Every day, the United Nations helps people around the world realize their most basic rights. Together with civil society and governments, we deliver food and provide shelter; support education and elections; clear mines; defend the environment; empower women; and strive for peace.

“But we cannot do it alone. This work depends on all people, everywhere, taking a stand. When we protect the most vulnerable, when we refuse to look away, when we speak up for the institutions that speak up for us, we keep human rights alive.

“Our rights should never take second place to profit or power. Let us unite to protect them, for the dignity and freedom of all.”

Several agencies, groups and organisations also delivered goodwill and solidarity messages including United Nations High Commissioner on Human Rights Mr. Volker Turk, represented by UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria; EU delegation in Nigeria, other diplomatic community members, MDAs and CSOs, among others.

The event was attended by staff and many management members of the Commission including the Director, Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Hajia Fatimah Mohammed Agwai, Director, Economic and Sociocultural Rights, Harry Obe, Director, Planning, Statistics and Documentation, Halimat Oyedele and Director, Legal Services, Hajia Rabi Anwar, among others.