The Nigerian Army has reiterated its commitment to the defence of human dignity and advancement of the cause of freedom of Nigerians throughout the country.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai who made the declaration on Monday in a message to mark the 2018 “International Human Rights Day,” also epressed the army’s firm belief that the promotion and protection of human rights were essential component of military operations.
He expressed regret over the situation in certain parts in the North Eastern States of the country, “where heinous acts of terrorism continue to be perpetuated by Boko Haram terrorists.”
Buratai said further: “We firmly embrace the idea and the message behind the International Human Rights Day and we are committed to doing our part to spread awareness and support for human rights every day.
“On this day, I recommit the Nigerian Army to supporting the brave officers, men and women who are working daily to defend human dignity and advance the cause of freedom of Nigerians across the 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory.”
While paying tribute to the officers and men who lost their lives in the pursuit of human rights for people in the North East, the Chief of Army Staff noted that “resurgent acts of terrorism challenges the rights that we celebrate today,” but assured that “freedom, including the right to live without fear would triumph eventually over terrorism,” and that the army remained committed to working toward that end.
He also commended local and International Non-Government Organisations for their support and partnerships in the effort to defend human dignity.
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“I specifically note the support of the National Human Rights Commission. Its human rights training programme for military personnel and its Nigerian Military Human Rights Dialogue initiative have largely enhanced the human rights awareness and education of our personnel.
“I am also thankful for our partnerships with the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, the International Red Cross and Crescent as well as Nigerian Bar Association,” he said.
December 10 every year is celebrated as World Human Rights Day to commemorates that day in 1948 the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The formal inception of Human Rights Day dates from 1950, after the Assembly passed resolution 423 (V) inviting all States and interested organizations to adopt 10 December of each year as Human Rights Day.
