A Model Initiative Promoting Community Health, Hygiene and Sustainable Practices in Nigeria

Ifo Market, Ogun State, Nigeria | 9 July 2025

Responding to the Call for Action

In a compelling demonstration of grassroots mobilisation, the Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) – Ogun State Chapter has launched a dynamic environmental sensitization campaign at Ifo Market, Ogun Central. This initiative directly responds to the renewed appeal issued by H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Head of Diplomatic Mission of IHRC in Nigeria, who, during the June Alike Community Empowerment event, called upon all volunteers across Nigeria to intensify efforts within the IHRC Community Service Initiative. Ogun State SMM has fully embraced this mandate, reinforcing IHRC’s commitment to community empowerment and sustainable development.

Mobilising Volunteers for Sustainable Impact

On Wednesday, 9 July 2025, under the leadership of Comrade Kazeem Lukman, IHRC-SMM Ogun State Coordinator, an experienced team of volunteers—including Comrade Janet Onu, Comrade Elizabeth Loto, Dr. Imasuen Mike, Jimoh Kamoru, and Alh. Ganiyu Amao—conducted a comprehensive sanitation and environmental awareness programme at Ifo Market. Their objectives were twofold:

• To improve public hygiene through active market sanitation,
• And to educate and empower traders by raising awareness of best environmental practices.

“We are not just cleaning spaces; we are enlightening minds. This sensitization was about building healthier, more informed communities—starting right from the grassroots.” emphasised Comrade Lukman.

Knowledge, Policy, and Community Engagement

The campaign placed a strong focus on the environmental policies of the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) and the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA), particularly regarding waste disposal, public hygiene, and sustainable practices. Market leaders and traders engaged enthusiastically in interactive sessions, actively participating in knowledge-sharing activities and welcoming the distribution of educational materials.

IHRC’s efforts were met with great interest:
Many traders expressed astonishment at the breadth of information received, resulting in lively discussions and a surge of questions. Market executives praised the initiative and formally expressed willingness to collaborate with IHRC on future outreach programmes.

Addressing Structural Gaps and Urgent Needs

While the campaign achieved significant progress in raising awareness, it also exposed critical infrastructural deficits—notably, the lack of proper waste disposal systems and limited access to potable water within the market. IHRC therefore urgently recommends:

• Immediate governmental intervention to provide clean water sources, waste bins, and essential sanitation logistics in public markets,
• Integration of these improvements into local and state-level policy frameworks to ensure long-term, sustainable hygiene.

Building on Momentum: Next Steps for Community Health

This sensitization campaign served as a strategic prelude to the scheduled environmental sanitation exercise in Ogun State on 10 July 2025, functioning as a vital seminar to bridge knowledge and practice gaps among key market stakeholders.

The volunteers extended their heartfelt appreciation to Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu, National Coordinator of IHRC-SMM Nigeria, whose visionary leadership and continued mentorship provide crucial guidance to local chapters across the nation.

IHRC’s Global Mission Reflected Locally

This initiative is a clear testament to the IHRC’s global vision—delivering tangible, positive change within communities and strengthening the capacity of citizens to live with dignity, health, and peace.
The Ifo Market sensitization campaign will remain a benchmark for effective volunteerism and informed community service in Nigeria.

Reported by:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head of Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

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Expanding Access to Healthcare Through Strategic International Collaboration

Minna, Niger State, Nigeria – 2 June 2025

Humanitarian Partnership for Better Health Outcomes

In a landmark effort to advance the right to health for all, the International Human Rights Commission IHRC Corporation in Nigeria, in strategic partnership with Max Healthcare, Alsadal Services Pvt. Ltd. (India), and the Niger State Ministry of Secondary and Tertiary Health, successfully conducted a free medical outreach at the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida Specialist Hospital in Minna, Niger State.

Impact in Numbers: Reaching the Underserved

On 2 June 2025, the outreach team provided free consultations and medications to more than 500 patients.
This initiative directly addressed urgent health needs within the community, illustrating the transformative power of international humanitarian cooperation in closing healthcare gaps in underserved regions.

Volunteers: The Backbone of Humanitarian Success

A dedicated IHRC volunteer team from Abuja, led by the Abuja Coordinator, played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this outreach.
Despite comprising only five members, the team’s unwavering professionalism and commitment set a new benchmark for IHRC’s operational presence in Niger State.

“This outreach is a testament to what can be achieved when organizations unite with a shared vision for public welfare. Through this partnership, we’ve not only delivered care but also hope.”
– Attending IHRC Coordinator

Leadership and Gratitude

The IHRC Nigeria, under the dynamic leadership of H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, expresses its deepest appreciation to the Special Advisor on Intergovernmental Affairs for Africa, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Shehu Ma’aji Malami, as well as the National Coordinator, Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu, for their steadfast guidance.
Special recognition is also extended to the IHRC Diplomatic Office for its ongoing support in making such impactful initiatives possible.

Upholding the Right to Health: The Mission Continues

As IHRC expands its humanitarian footprint across Nigeria, programmes such as this reaffirm its core mission:

• Promoting and protecting human rights
• Ensuring access to healthcare as a fundamental right
• Strengthening service, advocacy, and international collaboration

Issued by:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

The post 🏥 IHRC Partners with Max Healthcare and Alsadal Services to Deliver Free Medical Outreach in Niger State first appeared on ihrc.news.

LAGOS, NIGERIA — The African Union, in collaboration with the Global Excellence Summit Committee, proudly honored the Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission of the International Human Rights Commission-IHRC Corporation in Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, with the prestigious Agenda 2063 Women’s Impact Award on “Global Excellence in Diplomacy and Leadership: Africa’s Path to Prosperity”, during the Global Excellence Summit held on 24th May 2025 at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos State.

This distinguished recognition celebrates Dr. Hezekiah’s exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and transformative impact in advancing the goals of Agenda 2063, particularly as they pertain to women’s empowerment, education, innovation, and inclusive development across Africa.

A respected diplomat, humanitarian, and development advocate, Dr. Duru has long championed initiatives aimed at creating equitable opportunities for women and girls, fostering sustainable community development, and shaping policy dialogue across the continent. His commitment to building an Africa driven by its people, especially women and youth, aligns perfectly with the African Union’s vision of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful continent.

Presenting the award, representatives of the African Union commended Dr. Duru for his visionary approach to empowering future generations through education, capacity building, and socio-economic development programs. They emphasized the significance of his contributions in advancing the implementation of Agenda 2063 Aspiration 6, which envisions “an Africa whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential offered by African people, especially its women and youth, and caring for children.”

In his acceptance speech, Dr. Duru Hezekiah expressed deep gratitude to the African Union and the Summit Committee, stating:

“This award is not just a personal honor; it is a reaffirmation of our collective responsibility to uplift, empower, and invest in women across the continent. Africa’s future lies in the strength and vision of its women, and I remain committed to advancing that cause at every level.”

He reiterated the role of IHRC in the Nigerian Policy on Business and Human Rights, which constitutes a vital component of a broader global initiative aimed at ensuring that businesses consistently adhere to international human rights standards throughout their operations and supply chains.

This policy is directly aligned with prominent international frameworks, notably the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), which clearly delineate the obligations of states and enterprises in preventing human rights abuses.

He assured IHRC’s continued efforts and steadfast commitment in Nigeria and across Africa to holding businesses accountable for their human rights responsibilities, actively advocating for enhanced human rights protections within the corporate sector.

“Additionally, as Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission IHRC Nigeria, I do not claim sole credit for these accomplishments. I am indebted to all those who have contributed to it, and most especially Prof. h.c. Rafał Marcin Wasik, Secretary-General and Global Chairman of the International Human Rights Commission, for the encouragement and platform reposed on me; his vast contributions to the improvement of people’s lives and maintaining peace in the world have left an indelible mark on society”.

The Global Excellence Summit 2025 brought together influential leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and change-makers from across Africa and beyond, under the theme: “Leadership, Legacy, and the Future of Africa.” Dr. Duru’s award stood out as one of the summit’s highlights, symbolizing his critical leadership role in Africa’s development agenda.

Signed:

Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

The post Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Honoured with the African Union Agenda 2063 Women’s Impact Award at the Global Excellence Summit first appeared on ihrc.news.

In an official statement, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, IHRC Ambassador at Large and Head of the Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, stressed the urgent need for a unified approach to address this pervasive issue. He highlighted the multifaceted challenges contributing to violent extremism, including social inequality, unemployment, poverty, and political instability. According to Ambassador Hezekiah, addressing these root causes is fundamental to fostering social cohesion, economic development, and effective governance.

“The IHRC remains unwavering in its commitment to preventing violent extremism and advancing peace, security, and human rights through collaborative efforts,” said Ambassador Hezekiah. “We believe that by working alongside governments, civil society organisations, local communities, and international partners, we can counter the appeal of extremist ideologies and their destructive impacts.”

The statement further underscored the critical role of stakeholders, including governmental bodies, civil society groups, the private sector, and individuals, in collectively devising and implementing comprehensive strategies to curb violent extremism. Ambassador Hezekiah called on all parties to contribute actively, noting that cooperation across sectors is vital to achieving sustainable peace and stability.

Addressing Root Causes and Strengthening Resilience

Ambassador Hezekiah emphasised that tackling violent extremism requires a holistic approach. Economic empowerment initiatives, particularly for vulnerable groups such as youth and women, can serve as a critical tool in mitigating the socio-economic disparities that extremist groups often exploit. Additionally, strengthening educational opportunities and promoting community engagement can foster resilience against radical ideologies.

IHRC’s Role and Collaborative Efforts

The IHRC has been actively involved in promoting dialogue, capacity building, and strategic partnerships aimed at reducing violent extremism in Nigeria and Africa. By engaging with local communities, the IHRC ensures that solutions are rooted in the specific cultural and socio-economic contexts of the affected regions.

The Commission also works closely with international partners to align its initiatives with global efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of shared responsibility in addressing a challenge that transcends national borders.

Call to Action

The IHRC calls upon all stakeholders to join forces in the fight against violent extremism. Governments must prioritise policy frameworks that address the root causes of extremism, while civil society organisations play a pivotal role in implementing grassroots initiatives. The private sector can contribute through corporate social responsibility programs, and individuals are encouraged to engage in community-based actions that promote peace and inclusivity.

By working together, we can build a future where peace and security prevail, ensuring that the destructive influence of violent extremism is diminished. The IHRC reaffirms its dedication to this cause and stands ready to partner with all who share this vision.

Reported by:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head of Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

The post February 12: IHRC Calls for a Unified Front Against Violent Extremism in Nigeria and Africa first appeared on ihrc.news.

As stated on February 6, 2025, in Abuja by the Commission’s Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, addressing female genital mutilation necessitates a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to educating communities, leaders, and individuals regarding the harm caused by FGM, its consequences, and the importance of abandoning the practice.

He said the theme for this year’s International Day, “Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM,” emphasised the need for collective action and urgency to eliminate this practice by 2030.

Dr. Duru further emphasised that female genital mutilation is a brutal practice that has been perpetuated for centuries, leaving millions of girls and women worldwide with physical and emotional scars, stressing that such a heinous act of violence against women and girls is a gross human rights violation that must be eradicated.

It is argued that FGM is practiced in over 30 countries, primarily in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, and according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), over 200 million girls and women have undergone FGM worldwide.

He decried that girls and women who undergo FGM are at risk of chronic pain, infection, infertility, and complications during childbirth, and also at risk of developing mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression.

Emphasising that FGM is perpetuated by a complex interplay of cultural, social, and economic factors, making it a rite of passage and a way to prepare girls for marriage and womanhood in many African communities.

To curtail this detrimental practice, he urged stakeholders to enact and enforce laws that prohibit FGM and develop policies that support the prevention and protection of girls and women from FGM.

He maintained that civil society organisations should provide support to victims and survivors of FGM, as well as media outlets such as journalists, broadcasters, and social media influencers who can help raise awareness and promote positive messages about ending FGM to change cultural and social norms.

The Ambassador-at-Large reaffirmed that the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) is committed to supporting actions to end FGM and promoting the rights and dignity of girls and women worldwide.

“By working together and taking a comprehensive approach, we can end FGM and promote the health, well-being, and human rights of girls and women around the world,” he noted.

Reported:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

The post Int’l Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM: IHRC Calls for Decisive Action Against the Scourge first appeared on ihrc.news.

The Commission in a statement by the Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, stands in unison with the global community, comprising civil society organizations, Gender Justice movements, and international development partners, to undertake collective action aimed at revitalizing commitments and calling for accountability and action from stakeholders at various levels, from local to international.

Dr. Duru lamented that despite global and local efforts, approximately one in three women in Nigeria have been victims of violence, emphasizing that the statistics are alarming and unacceptable.

He said we must also fight rigid gender norms and stereotypes that perpetuate unhealthy masculinity and violence based on gender.

He urged Special Monitoring Mission Officials in Nigeria to coordinate activities and participate in high-level advocacy meetings marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), an annual international campaign that commences on 25th November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls and concludes on 10th December, Human Rights Day.

Reported:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

The post IHRC Seeks Actionable Practices to End Violence Against Women and Girls first appeared on ihrc.news.

In an opening remark, the IHRC State Coordinator, Mr. Ezeani Chiemezie, extended the commendation of IHRC Ambassador at Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, to the CP, commending him for his unrelenting efforts in combating crimes in Imo State, stressing that the Ambassador at Large Dr. Duru Hezekiah hails from Imo State and he’s well pleased with his antecedents.

Moreover, Chiemeziehe thanked the CP for adopting an open-door policy that made the visit possible despite various attempts in the past and also appreciated the CP for honouring the Commission’s invitation to attend her Human Rights and Peace Summit, represented by ASP Henry Okoye.

He stated that the aim and objectives of the organisation were to ensure that the human rights and dignity of people are upheld without fear of brutality, harassment, and unlawful incarceration and detention.

Availing that the International Human Rights Commission in Imo State is willing to partner and collaborate with the police in ensuring that the rights of residents of Imo State are protected. 

He also praised the gallant efforts of the men of the command, who have put their lives and families on line to ensure the safety of the people of Imo State.

Finally, he re-emphasised collaboration and partnership with the security agency in promoting human rights in the state, urging the CP to establish a liaison office within the State Police Command for a prompt and speedy response towards issues surrounding human rights violations in the state.

In response, CP Danjuma appreciated the Commission’s visit and its call to collaborate in ensuring human rights are protected, noting that human rights form the bedrock of sustainable peace. 

According to Danjuma, he always advocated for the rights of a suspect to contact his counsel and apply for bail where applicable, maintaining that their rights to medical care and to be taken care of are ensured.

He further expressed displeasure at the report of human rights violations associated with some of his men, noting that various mechanisms, such as the X-Squad, the Public Complaint Unit, and the PPRO office, have been put in place to curtail, cut down, and check the activities of the Police Force in the Imo State Police.

Finally, he thanked the team for coming and directed the Deputy PRO, Ms. Fyebe, to the office of the X-Squad. 

Therewith, ACP Barr. Linus Nwigwe, the head of the X-Squad, commended the IHRC’s work, reaffirming the commitments of the Command in ensuring that no one in the state is intimidated, extorted, or unlawfully detained by men of the Police Force.

Other members of IHRC Special Monitoring Mission officials present at the courtesy visit were Comrade Linda Dike and Comrade Immaculate Onwuachukwu.

Recall that the International Human Rights Commission – IHRC is a Transnational Intergovernmental Organization with World Headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, headed by Prof. h.c. Rafal Marcin Wasik IHRC Secretary General, Chairperson IHRC GROUP, and in Nigeria by H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Ambassador at Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission. Its Special Monitoring Mission in Nigeria is Coordinated by Engr. Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu.

Reported:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

The post Nigeria Police Engages IHRC in Strategic Partnership first appeared on ihrc.news.

The Diplomatic Mission of the International Human Rights Commission-IHRC in Nigeria commends Nigerian Governors who have initiated the implementation of the new minimum wage, signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in July 2024 and encourages them to uphold equitable and sustainable practices.

H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, the Commission’s Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, issued this statement on Friday, November 8, 2024, in Abuja, through a correspondence released to the press, stressing that the minimum wage increase in Nigeria is a step towards improving employee living standards and reducing poverty.

He said, “The International Human Rights Commission-IHRC extends its heartfelt commendation to Nigerian Governors Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Muhammad Yahaya of Gombe State, and others, for their exemplary commitment to implementing minimum wage in their respective States, showcasing their unwavering commitment to serving the public interest”.

Given the prevailing economic hardship in Nigeria, Dr. Duru pointed out that the wage increase is expected to provide affected employees with enhanced disposable income to satisfy basic requirements and augment their overall well-being, encouraging other state governors to emulate it.

“Similarly, businesses that offer higher wages create a more attractive work environment, encouraging employees to stay longer and reducing turnover rates”, he maintained.

He underscored the vital need for equitable and sustainable practices in implementing the minimum wage, emphasizing how this benefits workers, businesses, and the economy, and urged Governors to embrace it.

Recall that the country recently increased its minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, marking a 133% increase. This change aims to enhance the income of low-income households, ultimately improving their living standards and enabling them to meet essential needs.

Reported:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

The post IHRC Applauds Nigerian Governors on Minimum Wage Implementation first appeared on ihrc.news.

The International Human Rights Commission – IHRC in Nigeria has expressed concern over a circulating video showing 124 protesters, including minors with visible signs of malnutrition and exhaustion, arraigned in court on Friday, 1 November 2024, for allegedly protesting against bad governance that affects their livelihood, a fundamental right protected by Nigeria’s democratic constitution

This was obtained in a press statement issued on Saturday, 2 November, in Abuja by the Commission’s Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah.

According to the Ambassador-at-Large, the disheartening incident serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to protect human rights, appealing to the Federal Government for a drastic intervention.

He underscored the human rights concerns surrounding Nigerian minors in Kuje Prison and other correctional facilities, emphasizing that Nigerians must prioritize this issue, recognizing our shared obligation to protect human dignity within the global community.

Furthermore, Dr. Duru emphasized that the Organization strongly disapproves of juvenile delinquency in all its forms, including, vandalism, theft, violence, and gang involvement. Nevertheless, it recognizes that individuals in correctional facilities retain their inherent dignity as human beings.

While I commend the presiding judge’s intervention in halting the trial, I urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Law Enforcement Agencies, to thoroughly investigate and prevent such injustices, fostering a society where dignity and justice thrive.

In conclusion, I implore the Nigerian Government to reiterate its commitment to child rights, as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC), Nigerian Child Rights Act (2003), and the National Youth Policy (2019), through the Nigerian Child Rights Committee and Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRWA), to fulfill its responsibilities.

Reported
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head, Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

The post IHRC demands immediate government intervention on detained minors first appeared on ihrc.news.

Reverend Prince Gabriel Esiere stated that the church previously reached out to the International Human Rights Commission’s Office regarding a sensitive matter involving two church members whose lives were at risk.

He further stated that due to the Organization’s involvement, bail was secured for the members, and the matter was given the utmost priority.

In response, the IHRC’s Special Monitoring Mission South-South Regional Coordinator, Fidelis Onakpoma, revealed that the International Human Rights Commission is a Transnational Intergovernmental Organization led by Secretary-General Prof Rafał Marcin Wasik, the IHRC World Chairman, and H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Nigeria’s Ambassador-at-Large/Head of Diplomatic Mission.

He said the Organization provides support to victims of human rights violations, conducts fact-finding missions and investigations, and engages in advocacy and diplomatic efforts.

Fidelis, represented at the event by Hon. Dr. Wilson Ekwerekwu, an Official of the International Human Rights Commission-IHRC’s Special Monitoring Mission in Delta State, explained that the Commission’s Special Monitoring Mission entails the deployment of expert teams to specific regions or countries to implement various human rights measures.

He highlighted the activities as to:

1. Monitor human rights situations
2. Investigate allegations of human rights violations
3. Document and report findings
4. Provide recommendations for improvement
5. Engage with local stakeholders, governments, and civil society

According to him, the Special Monitoring Mission’s objectives are to:

1. Gather accurate and unbiased information
2. Identify patterns and trends of human rights abuses
3. Provide early warning systems for potential conflicts or crises
4. Promote accountability and transparency
5. Support capacity-building and technical assistance

He emphasized that IHRC Special Monitoring Mission also plays a crucial role in:

1. Promoting human rights protection
2. Preventing human rights violations
3. Supporting peace and stability
4. Encouraging accountability and justice
5. Empowering local communities and civil society.

In conclusion, he acknowledged the invaluable support of Engr. Elijah Vitus Echendu, National Coordinator of IHRC’s Special Monitoring Mission Nigeria, in the fight against human rights violations, encouraged the church members to report any such incidents to the organization for prompt action.

Reported:
Fidelis Onakpoma 
Head of Media and Strategic Communications, IHRC Nigeria

The post Service to Humanity: World Liberation Embassy, Holds Special Service Amidst IHRC’s Intervention first appeared on ihrc.news.