The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has assured the International Federation of Female Lawyers (FIDA) of an enhanced partnership to protect the rights of women and children as well as other vulnerable groups in Nigeria.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu OFR, SAN gave this assurance in Abuja when the Commission received the Chairperson of FIDA, Abuja branch, Barr. Chioma Onyenyecheya-Uko when she led her team on a courtesy visit.
The Executive Secretary who was represented at the visit by the Director Legal Services and Enforcement, Mrs. Rabi Anwar told the delegation that the NHRC is willing to collaborate with other organisations like FIDA who share similar mandates with the Commission to enhance the promotion, protection and enforcement of human rights in Nigeria especially the rights of less privileged women and girls.
The Learned Silk assured FIDA of the Commission's continuous support pointing out that the NHRC remains FIDA's reliable partner in legal advocacy, even as he assured them of increased participation in other activities of the Commission.
In her response, Barr. Chioma Onyenycheya-Uko expressed profound appreciation for the Commission's unwavering support over the years, adding that her organization is interested in strengthening the existing collaboration between both institutions in the promotion and protection of the rights of women, children, and other vulnerable groups in our society.
She commended the NHRC under the leadership of the present Executive Secretary for the consistent partnership and open-door policy that have bolstered FIDA's effort since her assumption of office which has significantly enhanced FIDA's service delivery, legal advocacy and impact within the FCT.
The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss areas of deeper collaboration including joint advocacy, enhanced access to justice and timely protection of human rights.
The Chairperson FIDA (FCT Branch) formerly appealed to the NHRC to encourage more female lawyers of the Commission to become active members of FIDA to strengthen advocacy networks as well as broaden the scope of legal assistance to women and children.
She expressed concern about the slow pace of justice delivery in court, thus urged the Commission to play a proactive role in facilitating interim relief for victims of human rights violations before the conclusion of proceedings in court.
