The European Union, EU, on Wednesday, said it was concerned about the rising cases of human rights violations in the country.

According to the EU, Nigeria, being the largest democracy in Africa, not only has an enormous responsibility but also plays a vital and pivotal role in the continent’s political landscape.

The Deputy Head of EU Delegation to Nigeria, Zissimos Vergos, spoke at a civil society consultation meeting on the state of human rights in the country, held at the headquarters of the National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, in Abuja.

He said the organization would continue to support training programs for law enforcement agencies, judiciary and human rights defenders and also collaborate with CSOs to ensure that the advocacy space remained strong and vivid.

Other areas he said the international body was interested in, included efforts to combat gender-based violence, protect the rights of children and promote freedom of expression.

“By supporting legal and policy reforms, the European Union works alongside Nigeria in promoting enforcement of human rights frameworks in conformity with international standards.

“The capacity building of Nigerian institutions and civil society is a key aspect of our support.

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“Training programs for law enforcement agencies, judiciary, human rights defenders are essential in fostering a culture of accountability and respect for the rule of law.

“The European Union continues always to advocate for the rule of law as a cornerstone of democratic governance.

“Supporting judicial reforms, enhancing the independence of the judiciary, and promoting accountability mechanisms are vital components of this advocacy.

“There is also the very important aspect of economic development and social inclusion. We recognize that everything is interconnected, democracy, human rights, and economic development.

“In this sense, the European Union promotes inclusive economic growth and social development, because without them, human rights and democracy would never blossom.

“We recognize that the 21st century is an era, a new era, where human rights and democracy continue to evolve amidst social movements, technological advancements, but unfortunately, global conflicts.

“The digital age has expanded the reach of activism, enabling voices to be heard worldwide. However, challenges such as authoritarianism, inequality, and climate change threaten this fundamental right.

“For a country, for a geographical bloc, for a region to assume global leadership, you have to prove your own strength on social, financial, and political inclusion.

“A country that wants to assume global leadership, a geographical bloc that wants to assume global leadership, must take care of what we call the citizen’s value chain.

“Social inclusion, financial inclusion, political inclusion, this is what the youth of today is asking everywhere. With your permission, at this moment, I would like to clarify also an important point.

“As European Union, our intention is not to impose teachings on human rights and democracy, but to share our historical journey and experiences.

“Concluding, I would like to say that the European Union’s support for dialogue on democracy and human rights in Nigeria and around the world is not only a testament, but also a test to our enduring commitment in support of this fundamental principle.

“As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, the values of democracy and human rights must remain our guiding light.

“Let us continue to work together in solidarity and determination to build a future where democracy and human rights are not just ideals but need to be confirmed through the everyday realities of everybody,” deputy head of the EU delegation added.

On his part, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Mr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, while commending the EU for its support, used the occasion to inaugurate the human rights defenders forum that has its members drawn from various organizations that included the CSOs, lawyers and security agencies.

“We are gathered here not only to discuss the current state of human rights in our country but also to chart a way forward—one that ensures greater protection for civil liberties, fosters democratic consolidation, and safeguards the fundamental rights of all Nigerians, especially those who stand up for the rights of others.

“As we know, the human rights landscape in Nigeria is a complex and evolving one. While we have made strides, challenges remain, especially regarding the protection of civic space and the safety of human rights defenders.

“In recent years, we have witnessed alarming trends, including restrictions on the rights of individuals and organizations to operate freely, and threats against those who dare to speak truth to power.

“These developments serve as a stark reminder that the protection of human rights is an ongoing struggle that requires continuous vigilance, action, and cooperation from all sectors of society,” the NHRC boss, Ojukwu, SAN, added.