The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) are embarking on a significant partnership aimed at promoting justice, peace, facilitating dispute resolution, and enhancing the overall welfare of both the Church community and the nation.
This collaborative effort was shared through a press release by the Church of Nigeria’s Communications Director, Korede Akintunde following a visit by the Church officials to the NHRC headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of The Most Rev’d Dr. Henry Ndukuba, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, The Rt. Rev’d Moses Tabwaye, Bishop of the Diocese of Gwagwalada, stated that the Church is committed to the principles of justice, equity, and peace.
He acknowledged the NHRC’s role in safeguarding and advancing human rights across Nigeria, stating, “The Church is committed to being a voice for the voiceless and to fostering a culture of respect for human dignity.
Today, we are exploring potential partnerships that will enable us to pool resources and capacities in advocating for justice and human rights at all levels of society.”
He added that the Church believes meaningful progress can be made in addressing the many human rights challenges faced in Nigeria. He stated that the visit aims to establish a synergy between the Church’s Directorate of Justice and Peace and the work of the National Human Rights Commission.
Venerable Amos Adebayo, the Director of Justice, Equity and Peace for the Church of Nigeria, highlighted the Church’s dual focus on welfare and the increasing relevance of human rights issues. He underscored the importance of integrating these concerns into the Church’s broader social mission and community engagement initiatives.
Dr. Tony Ojukwu OFR, SAN, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, lauded the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion for its exemplary leadership both within Nigeria and internationally, as well as its consistent advocacy on human rights issues.
Dr. Ojukwu recognized the Church as an indispensable partner in the Commission’s work, citing its capacity to engage with individuals across diverse regions and backgrounds. He specifically pointed to domestic violence as a recurring issue reported to the Commission, noting the Church’s strategic position to assist in addressing this challenge in collaboration with the NHRC.
Dr. Ojukwu announced the NHRC’s readiness for a strategic partnership, which will include the establishment of a technical working group. This group, comprising representatives from both institutions, will jointly spearhead efforts to promote justice, peace, and social welfare nationwide.
Furthermore, Dr. Ojukwu stated that the NHRC would provide crucial education and capacity-building opportunities for Church members, empowering them with knowledge of their rights and responsibilities. This initiative, he explained, aims to equip the Church’s leadership to advocate and act from a position of informed empowerment.
The Church of Nigeria delegation included The Venerable Barrister Ernest Onuoha, The Venerable Dr. Benjamin Idume, The Venerable Dr. Dallimore Odigie, Rev’d Gbenga Fatoye, Mrs. Nkiruka Nwofor, and Engr. Korede Akintunde, among others.
