NHRC Demands United Front Against Violent Extremism, Urges Investment in Youth, Vulnerable Groups

By Toffa Momoh | Abuja

The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, SAN, has called for stronger, coordinated action among government institutions, civil society organisations, youth groups, and development partners to curb violent extremism and rising human rights violations in Nigeria.

Speaking at the National Stakeholders, Civil Society and Youth Summit, Dr. Ojukwu, who was represented by the Director of Legal Services and Enforcement, Barr. Rabi A. Anwar, said lasting peace cannot be achieved through security measures alone.

He stressed that the root causes of extremism must be addressed, including widespread poverty, high unemployment, deepening inequality, social exclusion, and the limited opportunities available to young people.

Dr. Ojukwu also emphasized the urgent need to protect women, children, and other vulnerable groups who are disproportionately affected by insecurity and conflict. He urged all stakeholders to invest more deliberately in education, leadership training, and economic empowerment programs for youth, noting that creating pathways for skills, jobs, and civic participation is the most effective way to build resilience against radical ideologies and entrench respect for human rights across the country.