13 Brigade Organizes Human Rights Sensitization Lecture In Collaboration With Human Rights Commission, Cross River State

13 Brigade Organizes Human Rights Sensitization Lecture In Collaboration With Human Rights Commission, Cross River State

Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Calabar, on 30 September 2025, organized a sensitization lecture themed “Human Rights and the Military” as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen civil-military relations and deepen respect for human rights in military operations. The lecture was delivered by the Cross River State Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Mr Remi Odinaka Ajuga.

In his presentation, Mr Ajuga commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism and growing commitment to safeguarding the rights of citizens while carrying out internal security and other constitutional duties. He emphasized that human rights are inherent, inalienable, and fundamental to every individual, stressing that their protection is central to military legitimacy and operational success. He averred that upholding the dignity of the human person fosters trust and cooperation between the Armed Forces and the civilian population.

Mr Ajuga further encouraged troops to always balance operational demands with the protection of fundamental rights, pointing out that adherence to human rights standards enhances credibility, strengthens public trust, and ensures long-term mission effectiveness.

Speaking at the event, the Commander 13 Brigade, Brigadier General MO Ibrahim, appreciated the National Human Rights Commission for its partnership and reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to upholding the Nigerian Army’s core values of discipline, integrity, and respect for citizens’ rights.

The Commander averred that human rights remain a vital component of military professionalism, stressing that respect for human dignity minimizes harm to civilians, enhances public confidence, and strengthens the Army’s legitimacy in operations.

He further charged troops, saying, “Always remember that your duty as Nigerian soldiers is to protect, not to intimidate Nigerians. Never violate the rights of any civilian when dealing with them. Do not abuse the rights of Nigerians under any circumstances. When you are in doubt about the right action to take, seek guidance from your superiors instead of acting wrongly. Above all, treat civilians with respect and protect them, because their trust, cooperation, and information are vital to the success of our operations.”

Brigadier General Ibrahim described the lecture as timely and aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy which is “To Consolidate the Transformation of the Nigerian Army Towards Bequeathing a Well-Motivated and Combat-Ready Force that can Effectively Discharge its Constitutional Responsibilities within a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment”. He urged participants to take full advantage of the interactive session to clarify gray areas on human rights and civil-military relations.

Highlights of the sensitization lecture included the presentation of a plaque to the guest lecturer and a group photograph session to mark the event.

The sensitization lecture forms part of 13 Brigade’s continuous training and enlightenment initiatives designed to enhance troops’ professionalism and deepen community relations.