Strat.1 Ensure laws and policies that protect human rights are implemented effectively.
Strat.2 Strengthen the National Human Rights Commission to make it more effective
Strat.3 Strengthen the Human Rights Committee of the House to conduct oversight of government agencies and promote human rights education and human rights ombuds in law enforcement agencies (e.g., Police Act, 2022, the Armed Forces Act).
Specific Legislative Actions
Strat.1 The House of Representatives introduced and considered critical bills aimed at strengthening the legal framework for human rights protection, including the Human Rights Defenders Bill, which seeks to provide legal backing and protection for individuals and organisations advocating for human rights in Nigeria.
The House of Representatives has considered bills and passed motions supporting reforms to strengthen laws addressing gender-based violence, including amendments to the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP)
Strat.2 The House of Representatives has considered and advanced legislation aimed at reinforcing the legal mandate of the National Human Rights Commission, enhancing its powers to investigate human rights violations and enforce its decisions.
The House of Representatives through its Committee on Human Rights has partnered with NHRC, NGOs, and development partners to facilitate capacity-building programmes aimed at improving the Commission’s institutional effectiveness and response to human rights violations.
The House of Representatives called for an increase in budgetary provisions for the NHRC to ensure that it is adequately resourced to carry out its mandate effectively across the country.
Strat.3 Through its oversight functions, the House of Representatives continues to monitor the activities and regularly engage with the National Human Rights Commission and other MDAs to ensure compliance with human rights laws and obligations in its operations.
In partnership with non-governmental organisations and development partners, the House of Representatives has undertaken targeted capacity-building initiatives to enhance the operational effectiveness of its Committee on Human Rights, with a view to improving legislative oversight and advancing the protection of human rights in Nigeria
Judicial Reform, Rule of Law and Human Rights
Not started
In progress
Completed
Implementation Strategies
Strat.1 Initiate legal reforms to address systemic human right issues (e.g., improving the criminal justice system, prison conditions, access to justice, etc.)
Strat.2 Continuous review and reform the existing legal frameworks to ensure they aligns with international human rights standards.
Strat.3 Partner with civil society organizations in advocating, monitoring, and reporting human rights issues
Specific Legislative Actions
Strat.1 The House has advanced legislative measures aimed at reforming the criminal justice system, including amendments to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), to promote fair trial guarantees, reduce pre-trial detention, and enhance the efficiency of judicial processes.
As part of the constitutional review exercise, the House of Representatives has initiated bills to reinforce provisions on fundamental human rights, social justice, and the rule of law.
The House has passed motions and supported bills for second reading aimed at expanding access to legal aid services
Strat.2 Initiated constitutional amendment process to strengthen human rights provisions.
Considered legislative proposals to safeguard human rights advocates.
Advanced bills reforms to the criminal justice system and prison conditions.
Conducted public hearings and stakeholder consultations to align laws with international standards.
Strat.3 The House of Representatives engaged with local and international human rights organisations to align legislative actions with global best practices and leverage technical support for implementing human rights frameworks.
Judicial Reform, Rule of Law and Human Rights
Not started
In progress
Completed
Implementation Strategies (STRAT)
Strat.1 Pass legislation that protects and promote human rights
Strat.2 Domesticate the relevant international human rights treaties
Specific Legislative Actions
Strat.1 The House of Representatives has advanced the protection and promotion of human rights in Nigeria by enhancing legal safeguards, improving access to justice, empowering oversight institutions, and fostering inclusivity for vulnerable groups through constitutional amendments, oversight, and targeted bills such as
Strat.2 The 10th House of Representatives has not yet achieved comprehensive domestication of relevant international human rights treaties — progress is limited to selected instruments, with several key treaties still pending legislative action.
The House of Representatives established a Committee on Treaties, Protocols, and Agreements with the mandate to facilitate and engage with relevant stakeholders on the domestication of international human rights treaties.
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