Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar has reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to multilateralism and universal human rights during a high-level address at the 61st Session of the Human Rights Council today.
Speaking to the assembly on February 25, 2026, Ambassador Tuggar outlined Nigeria’s domestic progress and international aspirations, emphasizing that the protection of human dignity is central to the country’s national agenda.
National Security and Educational Safety
Addressing the global crisis of peace and security, Tuggar highlighted Nigeria’s proactive measures to protect its most vulnerable citizens. He specifically pointed to the National Plan on Financing Safe Schools, an initiative aimed at securing learning environments against external threats.
”The right to learn in safety is a sacred priority,” Tuggar stated, adding that Nigeria is currently mainstreaming international humanitarian standards into all internal security operations to ensure civilian protection and accountability.
Economic Reform and Development
Under the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” the Minister detailed bold fiscal reforms intended to stabilize the Nigerian economy. These reforms are reportedly designed to:
- Enhance Transparency: Strengthening financial systems to curb corruption.
- Expand Social Safety Nets: Increasing the reach of National Social Investment Programmes.
- Empower Youth: Utilizing the digital economy to drive job creation and poverty reduction.
Tuggar argued that the right to development is inseparable from human rights, noting that inclusive growth is the most effective tool for preventing conflict and bolstering democratic resilience.
Climate Action and Freedom of Belief
The Minister also linked environmental protection to human rights, noting that climate change poses a direct threat to food security and health. He pledged Nigeria’s continued commitment to climate adaptation strategies. Furthermore, he reinforced Nigeria’s stance on Freedom of Religion or Belief, describing the peaceful coexistence of various faiths as the bedrock of Nigerian national unity.
2027-2029 Council Candidacy
In a concluding move, Ambassador Tuggar officially presented Nigeria’s candidacy for membership in the Human Rights Council for the 2027–2029 term. He stated that Nigeria is ready to work with global partners to advance justice and sustainable development across Africa and the world.
