A renowned human rights advocate, Ambassador Malami Shehu Ma’aji (MFR) has been appointed as the chairman advisory board of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Nigeria.
He also functions as a Special Intergovernmental Advisor on Africa.
The IHRC is a transnational intergovernmental organisation with headquarters in Switzerland.
Dr Ma’aji expressed his appreciation on the honour and privilege to be appointed as chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT) and advisor to the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), Africa, during the presentation of certificate to him by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, at a symposium on human rights and inauguration of new officials at the National Centre for Women Development, in Abuja.
Dr. Malami in his acceptance speech Wednesday said: “My thanks and gratitude also goes to the Office of the Head of Diplomatic Mission Nigeria for organising this event, and everyone that contributed in one way or the other for its success. Today, we gather to celebrate the World’s Human Rights Day.
“This day is unique, significant and invites all to reflect with soberness whether we have in our collective and individual positions respected the rights of fellow human beings. Human rights are fundamental rights and freedoms that every individual is entitled to, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, gender, language, religion, or any other status. These rights are universal.’’
He further outlined that the initiative of human rights culminates in equality of dignity at creation, safe social, economic and political privileges that are enunciated through systemic rules and laws.
He said it was worrisome that after decades of independence, Nigeria is still under the radar of international organisations because of alleged human rights violations with special reference to the abuse of minors, women and the vulnerable persons which seems not to abate across the country.
He said: “I call on the government at all levels to consider assessing this situation and take bold steps to redress these infractions. The situation demands effective advocacy, which itself is a right under the need to access information for national mobilisation.’’
