CSW70: Women’s Rights Are Fundamental, Not Male Concessions–NHRC’s Boss Ojukwu Insists
The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (SAN) has reaffirmed that women’s rights are fundamental human entitlements—not concessions granted by men—and must be upheld by all stakeholders.
Ojukwu made this assertion while speaking at a sideline event during the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) in New York, United States.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria stressed that women are demanding their rights, not privileges, and called on men to actively support gender equity.
The event, organised by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, brought together key stakeholders to advance discussions on inclusion and equality. Ojukwu emphasised that true justice requires the active participation of women in decision-making processes.
“You cannot talk about women without having them at the table,” he said.
Highlighting internal reforms at the Commission, the Chief Human Rights Officer of Nigeria disclosed that it has adopted a zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment and increased women’s representation in leadership, with women now occupying 10 out of 15 director positions.
He noted that when women feel safe and empowered, they perform exceptionally, adding that economic support and sustained awareness are critical to ending gender-based violence.
Other Nigerian participants at the event included the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and the Wife of the Ooni of Ife, Temitope Ogunwusi, among others.
The engagement reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing gender equality and strengthening partnerships that promote justice and inclusive development.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Director, Corporate Affairs and External Linkages of the NHRC, Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, on Wednesday
