Enugu State Chief Judge, Attorney General, NBA Chairman Others Commend Nigerian Army For Promoting Human Rights

Enugu State Chief Judge, Attorney General, NBA Chairman Others Commend Nigerian Army For Promoting Human Rights

The Chief Judge of Enugu State, Honorable Justice A. Ozoemena, has commended the Nigerian Army (NA) for its proactive efforts in promoting human rights within its operational framework. Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the 5th Edition of the Nigerian Army Human Rights Seminar, themed “Human Rights and Operational Effectiveness: Establishing the Nexus,” organized by the Department of Civil-Military Affairs, Army Headquarters, held on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Oakland Hotel, Achara, Enugu.

Honorable Justice Ozoemena who was represented by Justice Ogbonna Onovo, described the seminar as timely and apt. He emphasized that human rights are the foundation upon which societies are built and urged the NA to maintain a delicate balance between operational success and the protection of civil liberties. He stressed that transparency, accountability, and a mindset geared towards ethical conduct are essential in bridging the gap between military operations and human rights compliance.

In his keynote address, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (CCMA), Maj Gen Gold Chibuisi, reiterated the NA’s unwavering commitment to upholding human rights across all its operations. He noted that the seminar, now in its fifth edition, is necessitated by the evolving operational landscape in which the army operates. General Chibuisi said the NA has prioritized human rights by establishing functional human rights desks in all its formations and investing heavily in the training and retraining of personnel on human rights issues and professional conduct in all situations. He affirmed that the Army continuously reviews its operational procedures to align with international best practices and human rights standards.

Maj Gen Chibuisi also disclosed that alleged violations by personnel are thoroughly investigated and those indicted are subjected to court martial and other appropriate disciplinary measures, ensuring that justice is served. He expressed optimism that the seminar would foster better understanding between the army and the civilian populace, thereby enhancing both operational effectiveness and public trust.

Maj Gen Chibuisi extended his appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, for his strategic leadership and for approving and funding the seminar and other Civil-Military Affairs programmes.

The seminar which underscored the high-level commitment of the NA to human rights and civil engagement converged over 500 participants from the media, legal, academics and civil society sectors provided a platform for civilians to engage directly with military hierarchy on issues of human rights and the conduct of military operations.

In a goodwill message, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Enugu Branch, Mr. Chukwuma Odo Esq, lauded the NA for organizing the thought-provoking engagement and striving to improve its human rights record. He emphasized the importance of feedback from the public in shaping the conduct of service-oriented institutions and pledged the NBA’s continued support in ensuring that law-abiding citizens are treated with dignity, respect, and civility. Mr Odo, called for a balanced approach between the army’s operational mandates and its human rights obligations. He noted that such seminars are crucial in aligning military actions with legal and ethical standards.

The fifth edition of the seminar marks another significant milestone in the NA’s efforts at building trust and ensuring a seamless civil milirary synergy, aimed at building a more secured and just society.

Highlight of the event includes lectures, engaging interactive sessions, presentation of souvenirs and group photographs.