Edith CHUKU
As part of efforts to strengthen the capacity of National Human Rights Institutions to effectively promote and protect human rights as well as enhance access to justice across the country, the National Human Rights Commission NHRC, has organized a Business and Human Rights Forum.
The forum will provide an invaluable opportunity for stakeholders, to gain insights into the evolving human rights landscape in Nigeria and the critical role of the NHRC, government agencies, private sector and other partners in addressing these emerging challenges.
NHRC in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme UNDP, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), revealed that the Business and Human Rights Forum is part of the Tripartite Partnership Programme (TPP) supported by UNDP, OHCHR and GANHRI and implemented by the NHRC.
The Rivers State NHRC Coordinator, Mrs Okoroji Chinwe, described the TPP as “a unique programme and partnership which seeks to strengthen the capacity of the National Human Rights Institutions to be able to achieve their mandate in promoting and protecting human rights and access to justice.
“The TPP also aims to increase fulfilment of human rights for all people by providing a unique platform of collaboration for the United Nations to support the National Human Rights Commission.”
Okoroji noted that “in April 2023, the Federal Executive Council in implementing Nigeria’s obligations under the UN Global Principles, adopted the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAP- BHR).
“Following this adoption, a National Working Group on Business and Human Rights was inaugurated in Abuja in December 2023. The NAP-BHR outlines practical steps and responsibilities of government and private sector in advancing human rights practices in business operations.
“The NAP-BHR also envisages the establishment of state-level frameworks and mechanisms for promoting responsible business practices in the State.”
She further revealed the objectives of the Business and Human Rights Forum in the state to include, “Serve as a platform for interactions of stakeholders in government, business and private sector to advance the protection of human rights in the world of business.
“Promote understanding of the national and global instruments on business and human rights. c. Provide opportunities for understanding the mandate and opportunities within the NHRC for the promotion and protection of human rights in Nigeria.
“Promote partnership between the NHRC, Government of Rivers State, private sector, civil society, and development partners for the adoption of human rights-based approaches in the operation of business, trade and investment in Rivers State. Strengthen response and feedback mechanisms in addressing business related human rights violations and promote best practices by private and public sectors in advancing human rights in Rivers State.”
