NBA Marks International Human Rights Day with National Workshop, Reaffirms Commitment to Defending Rights and Liberties
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, convened a national workshop in Abuja to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding human dignity, strengthening democratic institutions, and defending the rights of vulnerable citizens.
Welcoming participants to the event, the Moderator, Emeka Obegolu, SAN, described the day as both a moment of celebration and a solemn call to action. He began by acknowledging dignitaries and attendees, stating:
“It is with great joy and a deep sense of responsibility that I welcome you all to this very important event: the Nigerian Bar Association’s International Human Rights Day Workshop, commemorating the 77th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.”
He recalled the significance of 10 December 1948, when the global community, still recovering from the horrors of war, united to affirm that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.
Seventy-seven years later, he said, that commitment remains urgent, especially across Nigeria and Africa where democratic and socio-economic pressures continue to threaten fundamental freedoms.
Obegolu emphasized the critical role of legal practitioners in the human rights landscape, noting that lawyers are not bystanders but custodians of justice and defenders of the rule of law.
He stated that the NBA has consistently demonstrated leadership in holding power accountable and protecting vulnerable communities, adding that the day’s workshop further underscores the Association’s dedication to promoting human rights in Nigeria.
Speaking on the 2025 theme: “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials,” he described it as timely and reflective of current national realities, including economic hardship, institutional strain, and the complexities posed by emerging technologies.
He noted that the workshop had assembled “some of the finest minds in human rights law, governance, technology, and activism” to interrogate contemporary issues and develop actionable strategies.
The Moderator reiterated that the Nigerian Bar remains unwavering in its duty to stand with the oppressed and speak truth to power.
He urged participants to engage deeply during the sessions, saying:
“Let us make this International Human Rights Day not just a commemoration, but a renewed pledge to build a Nigeria where the rights and dignity of every citizen are respected, protected, and fulfilled.”
Obegolu concluded by wishing attendees a rewarding deliberation and expressing confidence that the outcomes of the workshop would extend well beyond the event.
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