NHRC Highlights the Importance of Maputo Protocol for Women's Rights in Africa

On July 11, 2023, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) emphasized the significance of the Maputo Protocol in advancing women's rights across the African continent.

Chief Tony Ojukwu (SAN), the Executive Secretary of the Commission, acknowledged the progress made towards gender equality while recognizing the existing obstacles that hinder African women from fully enjoying their civil, political, social, economic, and cultural rights.

The Maputo Protocol, formally known as the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa, was adopted by the Heads of State and Government of the African Union in Maputo, Mozambique, on July 11, 2003.

The protocol aims to protect and promote women's rights in Africa. Agharese Arese, the NHRC's Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, stated that the protocol defends against discrimination, gender-based abuse, harmful customs, armed conflict, impairments, and suffering.

In addition to safeguarding women from various forms of violence and injustice, the Maputo Protocol also guarantees their rights to inheritance, sustainable development, health, reproductive freedom, dignity, integrity, security of person, equality in marriage and before the law, political participation, social welfare, and economic empowerment.

According to the NHRC, the protocol has served as a solid foundation for promoting equality and combating violence, discrimination, and harmful practices against women and girls over the past two decades.

However, Chief Ojukwu emphasized that despite the advancements made in Nigeria, there are still pressing issues that require immediate attention.

The NHRC's head acknowledged the importance of collaboration and collective action in addressing gender-based violence, discrimination, harmful cultural practices, and socioeconomic inequities that impede women's progress. He urged the Legislature to domesticate the Protocol to ensure effective implementation and called upon all stakeholders, including the government, development partners, civil society organizations, and the private sector, to unite in this endeavor.

Chief Ojukwu reaffirmed the commitment of the National Human Rights Commission to play a pivotal role in promoting gender equality and ensuring the protection and enforcement of women's rights in accordance with the Maputo Protocol.

He stated that the Commission will work in collaboration with government institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners to strengthen legislative frameworks, enhance access to justice, provide support services for victims of gender-based violence, and raise awareness about the rights of women and girls.