Politics
THE National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has commended the Federal Government for signing instruments for ratification of the Protocol on the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights of Older Persons.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Mr Tony Ojukwu, SAN, gave the commendation in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) presided over by President Ahmed Tinubu had on Monday approved the Ratification of the Protocol.
NAN reports also that Nigeria had signed the protocol to the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights and on the Rights of Older Persons on Feb. 10, 2020.
NAN further reports that by this, Nigeria becomes the 13th member-state in the African region to affirm its obligations to strengthen the protection of the rights of older persons through a binding regional legal instrument.
Ojukwu said the ratification of this important Protocol underscores the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights, specifically those of older persons, in the country.
” The ratification of the Protocol reaffirms the country’s pledge to upholding the dignity, security, participation, independence, autonomy, and long-term care of older persons.
” It is a testament to the government’s dedication to providing older citizens with equal opportunities and equity across generations.
” With this formal ratification, Nigeria has positioned itself as a member-state in the African region committed to safeguarding these rights through a binding regional legal instrument” he said.
According to Ojukwu, this action is a testament to Nigeria’s determination to ensure older persons are guaranteed their fundamental rights and well-being.
He added that the Commission is pleased to see Nigeria’s continued commitment to human rights on the African continent and beyond.
” In its role as a member of the Global Allaince of National Human Rights Institutions ( GANHRI) Working Group on Ageing, Nigeria has actively supported the Open Ended Working Group on Ageing mandate to develop the best possible document for an internationally binding instrument on the rights of older persons.
” This reflects Nigeria’s proactive engagement with global human rights issues he stressed.
” Nigeria’s ratification of this protocol not only provides tangible support for a regional instrument but also underscores the region’s desire to support a United Nations Convention that would be developed on the protection of rights of older persons” he said.
He expressed firm believe that this ratification will lead to improved protection and promotion of the rights of older persons in the country .
He added that the NHRC remains steadfast in its commitment to working with relevant Stakeholders to ensure the realization of human rights for all citizens.
NAN reports that the protocol is a transformative legal instrument providing norms and standards in ensuring respect and protection of the rights of older persons in Africa.
Its adoption would ensure that older persons are treated with dignity and respect, and as equal members of society.(NAN)
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October 25, 2023 @ 15:53 GMT|
Tags: Tony Ojukwu
