Nigeria, UN Deepen Human Rights Partnership, Seek Resolution of Liberia Legacy Cases
The Federal Government and the United Nations have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing human rights protection and victims’ rights advocacy, while intensifying efforts to resolve long-standing legacy cases linked to Nigeria’s past peacekeeping operations in Liberia.
The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), OFR, made the commitment during a diplomatic working visit by the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Victims’ Rights Advocate, Ms. Najla Nassif Palma, and her delegation at the Ship House in Abuja.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, the minister reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to international humanitarian law and strict adherence to globally accepted human rights standards in all military operations.
During the meeting, Musa briefed the UN delegation on measures put in place by the Federal Government to address historical challenges arising from previous foreign peacekeeping missions. He assured the visiting team of a transparent and efficient communication framework designed to facilitate the resolution of outstanding paternity claims connected to legacy peacekeeping operations in Liberia.
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The minister noted that the mechanism would help accelerate the handling of the cases and provide a pathway toward resolving issues that have remained unresolved for decades.
Speaking during the engagement, Palma disclosed that 42 legacy cases are currently under review and appealed for the continued cooperation of the Nigerian government in ensuring justice, accountability and closure for affected victims.
She further revealed that some individuals connected to the cases had expressed interest in acquiring Nigerian citizenship, highlighting the need for sustained collaboration between both parties.
The discussions also focused on strengthening institutional cooperation on human rights protection within the security sector.
At the end of the meeting, both sides agreed to formalise a broader partnership that will include specialised training programmes, joint workshops and capacity-building initiatives aimed at further integrating human rights principles into the operational doctrine of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The renewed partnership underscores ongoing efforts by Nigeria and the United Nations to promote accountability, enhance victims’ rights protection and strengthen compliance with international humanitarian and human rights standards.
By PRNigeria
