Nigeria and United Nations Strengthen Partnership on Human Rights and Victims’ Rights Advocacy

The Federal Government has restated its dedication to upholding international humanitarian law and ensuring that all military operations align with global human rights standards, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd) OFR, has declared.

General Musa received the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Victims’ Rights Advocate, Ms. Najla Nassif Palma, and her team at the Ship House in Abuja for a diplomatic working visit, the Special Assistant on Media to the Honourable Minister of Defence, Leah Katung-Babatunde, confirmed in a statement.

During the meeting, the Minister outlined various measures already put in place by the government to tackle historical issues stemming from past peacekeeping missions abroad.

He assured the UN delegation that a clear and open communication framework has been established to swiftly handle outstanding paternity claims connected to legacy operations in Liberia, with the goal of finally closing that chapter.

Ms. Najla Nassif Palma, in her address, revealed that 42 legacy cases are presently being examined and requested Nigeria’s assistance in delivering justice and resolution for the affected persons. She also mentioned that some of the individuals involved have shown interest in obtaining Nigerian citizenship.

Both sides resolved to forge a stronger, more structured alliance moving forward. This new phase of cooperation will include targeted training sessions, joint seminars, and enhanced capacity development programmes aimed at deepening the integration of human rights protections within the operational practices of the Nigerian military.

General Musa reiterated that Nigeria remains fully committed to transparent and accountable processes in all its defence activities, as noted by Leah Katung-Babatunde in the official communication.

Leah Katung-Babatunde added that the engagement signals a renewed push by the government to resolve longstanding concerns while strengthening institutional safeguards for human rights across the armed forces.