By Gabriel Ameh
ABUJA, Nigeria — The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for renewed commitment and decisive action to advance and safeguard the rights of women and girls across Nigeria as the world marks International Women’s Day 2026.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Tony Ojukwu, made the call in a goodwill message to Nigerian women and women across the globe to commemorate the annual celebration.
According to him, the theme for this year’s celebration, “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” underscores the need to move beyond rhetoric and adopt deliberate actions that dismantle barriers preventing women and girls from fully enjoying their fundamental human rights.
Ojukwu stated that the NHRC remains firmly committed to protecting the dignity and rights of women and girls in line with its constitutional and statutory mandate.
He explained that the Commission operates a dedicated department that handles issues relating to women and children, which has over the years received numerous complaints related to sexual and gender-based violence, discrimination, and other human rights violations affecting women.
Through mediation, investigations, and other intervention mechanisms, the Commission has resolved many of these cases, ensuring remedies for victims while promoting accountability and respect for the rights of women and girls.
However, the NHRC expressed concern over the persistent practice of early and forced marriage in some communities, warning that such practices deprive girls of their childhood, deny them access to education, and expose them to serious health and socio-economic risks.
Ojukwu also drew attention to the low representation of women in political and decision-making positions, stressing that inclusive governance cannot be achieved without meaningful participation of women.
He further noted that women often bear a disproportionate burden in situations of insecurity, conflict, and displacement, where they face heightened risks of exploitation, violence, and loss of livelihood.
The NHRC boss emphasized that advancing the rights of women is not only a moral obligation but also a constitutional responsibility and a critical factor for sustainable development.
He therefore called for stronger implementation of laws and policies designed to protect women and girls, while ensuring that survivors of rights violations have timely access to justice and effective remedies.
Ojukwu commended Nigerian women for their resilience, courage, and significant contributions to national development across sectors such as governance, education, business, agriculture, security, and community development.
“As we commemorate International Women’s Day, we must reaffirm our collective commitment to building a society where every woman and girl can live free from violence, discrimination, and fear, and where their rights and dignity are fully respected,” he said.
The Commission also reiterated its commitment to continued advocacy, monitoring, and public engagement initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and strengthening the protection of women’s rights across the country.
International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, recognizes the achievements of women worldwide while advancing the global movement for gender equality and the protection of women’s rights.
