FG, India Sign Human Rights Cooperation Pact, Target Stronger Justice Systems

Nigeria and India have taken steps to deepen cooperation in the protection and promotion of human rights through a new agreement between their respective National Human Rights Commissions.

The partnership, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is expected to strengthen institutional capacity, improve access to justice and promote the exchange of expertise between both countries.

The agreement was discussed during a meeting between a joint delegation of the Nigerian and Indian National Human Rights Commissions and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, in Abuja on November 10, 2026.

The delegation was led by the Executive Secretary of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission, Chief Anthony Ojukwu, and the Chairperson of India’s NHRC, Justice V. Ramasubramanian.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu described the agreement as an important step towards converting the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and India into practical institutional collaboration.

She identified access to justice, effective complaint-handling mechanisms and the protection of vulnerable persons as critical areas requiring stronger cooperation.

The minister also called for greater engagement between both countries in shaping an inclusive international human rights system, noting that Nigeria and India could play significant roles as members of the Global South.

She reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to international human rights obligations following its election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2027–2028 term.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed appreciation to UN member states for supporting Nigeria’s election, pledging that the country would uphold the principles of the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

She, however, drew attention to concerns over the treatment of Nigerians held in custodial centres in India, urging appropriate attention to their welfare, dignity and fundamental rights.

Earlier, Ojukwu said the MoU would provide a framework for technical exchanges and institutional development between the two commissions.

He identified improved complaint-management processes, human rights compliance in security sector governance and joint research on international law and emerging human rights issues as major areas of collaboration.

He also highlighted the need for closer cooperation between the NHRC and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to strengthen the integration of international human rights standards into Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements and treaty obligations.

In his remarks, Ramasubramanian noted that Nigeria and India shared important historical and diplomatic connections, as well as similarities in population, cultural diversity, religious composition and democratic aspirations.

He said the agreement would enable both institutions to share experiences, exchange best practices and strengthen their capacity to address human rights challenges.

Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation and promoting fundamental freedoms through stronger human rights institutions and international engagement.