Nigeria declares bid for membership of UN Human Rights Council

Nigeria has formally declared its bid for membership of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the 2027–2029 term.

In a video statement, Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar described the council as a vital platform for dialogue, conflict prevention and international cooperation on human rights. He said Nigeria is prepared to collaborate fully with the council’s mechanisms, noting that they play a key role in promoting and protecting human rights globally.

Tuggar outlined steps being taken by the federal government to strengthen human rights protections at home, including financing safe schools and improving security in learning environments amid ongoing security challenges.

“While no nation is immune, Nigeria’s experiences have only deepened our resolve to protect the right to life and the security of all citizens, especially our children whose right to learn in safety is a sacred priority,” he said. “To this end, we have accelerated the national plan on financing state schools, providing critical investments to secure learning environment.”

He added that Nigeria is strengthening accountability through reforms and regional and international cooperation to ensure that human rights and humanitarian standards are integrated into internal security operations, with a focus on civilian protection.

The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to freedom of religion and belief, describing peaceful coexistence among faith communities as central to national unity. “Nigeria remains resolute in ensuring a society where every citizen, regardless of creed or tribe, stands protected under the shield of justice,” he said.

Tuggar also referenced ongoing economic reforms, social investment programmes and the expansion of Nigeria’s digital economy as measures aimed at fostering development and long-term stability.

He further linked human rights to environmental sustainability, stating that climate adaptation strategies and climate action efforts are anchored in human rights and sustainable development principles.

Nigeria previously served on the UNHRC until 2020, after being re-elected for the 2018–2020 term. Council members are elected annually for three-year terms on a rotational basis. Angola, Egypt, Mauritius and South Africa were recently elected to serve for the 2026–2028 term.