NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION ACT
Act · Human Rights
An Act establishes the National Human Rights Commission to promote and protect human rights in Nigeria. It targets individuals whose rights are violated, government agencies, and civil society organisations. This ensures investigations of abuses and advice to the government on human rights matters.
NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION ACT
What Is This Policy?
An Act that establishes the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) as Nigeria's principal institution for the promotion and protection of human rights, with powers to investigate violations and provide remedies.
Who Does It Target?
Persons whose human rights have been violated Government agencies and institutions as duty-bearers Civil society organisations working on human rights NHRC commissioners and staff
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Promote awareness of human rights, investigate alleged violations, provide non-judicial remedies to victims, and advise government on human rights obligations.
Key Features
Investigation Powers: Empowers the NHRC to receive complaints, investigate allegations of human rights violations, and summon persons and documents. Mediation and Redress: Provides for mediation between parties and compensation awards where human rights violations are established. Advisory Function: Advises the government on human rights legislation, policies, and compliance with international human rights treaties. Public Awareness: Conducts public education, training, and sensitisation on human rights across Nigeria.
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active - NHRC is operational nationwide with zonal offices Coverage: Nationwide Beneficiaries: All Nigerians whose rights are violated Funding: Federal Government appropriations
How to Access
Submit a complaint to the nearest NHRC zonal office or headquarters Complaints must identify the violating party and describe the violation No filing fee is required Application method: File complaints at the NHRC headquarters in Abuja or any zonal office. Online: https://www.nhrc.gov.ng
Important Terms
NHRC decisions are recommendatory not binding; enforcement may require court proceedings Complaints must be lodged within one year of the violation NHRC cannot investigate matters pending before a court
Official Resources
Website: https://www.nhrc.gov.ng Contact: National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
Legal Framework
Enacted under Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution. Operates under the core international human rights treaties ratified by Nigeria including the ICCPR, ICESCR, CEDAW, CRC, the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights, and the Paris Principles on National Human Rights Institutions. Aligns with the National Human Rights Commission Act 1995.