Guterres Calls for Recommitment to Protection of Fundamental Freedoms

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has urged the international community to recommit to the protection of fundamental freedoms, warning that human rights are increasingly under threat worldwide.

Guterres made the call in his annual message to mark Human Rights Day, commemorated globally.

Guterres, whose message was read by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Fall, at the celebration of 30th Anniversary celebration of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), reflected on the legacy of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted nearly 80 years ago, describing it as a “philosophical and political breakthrough” that remains the foundation of modern international cooperation.

The declaration, he noted, laid out the basic civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights required for every person to “survive and thrive.”

He however cautioned the world is experiencing a disturbing erosion of these rights. “Recent years have brought a shrinking of civic space,” he said.

“We have grave violations that signal a flagrant disregard for rights, and a callous indifference to human suffering.”

He noted that despite these setbacks, change is possible when governments, institutions and citizens work together.

He highlighted the role of the United Nations in supporting vulnerable populations through activities such as food assistance, shelter provision, education support, election monitoring, environmental protection, women’s empowerment and peacebuilding.

“This work depends on all people, everywhere, taking a stand,” he emphasised. “When we protect the most vulnerable, when we refuse to look away, when we speak up for the institutions that speak up for us, we keep human rights alive.”

He stressed that human rights must never be sacrificed for political gain or economic interests.

“Our rights should never take second place to profit or power,” Guterres said. “Let us unite to protect them, for the dignity and freedom of all.”

He noted that Human Rights Day 2025 continues the global call for renewed commitment to justice, equality and universal freedoms at a time of rising conflict, displacement and social inequality.

On his part, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu, restated the commission’s commitment to advancing freedom, equality and justice in Nigeria.

Ojukwu who led the commission on symbolic “Walk for Human Rights” in Abuja, said a lot needs to be done to safeguard human rights.

NHRC, which also used the day to commemorate the 2025 International Human Rights Day, welcomed stakeholders, partners and human rights defenders to the celebration,

Ojukwu described the event as a moment of gratitude and reflection, noting that the commission has, since its establishment in 1995, remained a beacon for the protection and enforcement of human rights across the country.

He said: “This year’s Human Rights Day is special,” he said. “It marks three decades of dedicated service to humanity by Nigeria’s National Human Rights Institution. It is also an opportunity to honour exceptional partners whose support has strengthened our work over the years.”

Ojukwu emphasised that the anniversary represents both a journey and a reaffirmation: a journey that began with the vision of entrenching freedom, equality and justice, and a reaffirmation of the commission’s resolve despite persistent challenges including insecurity and socio-economic pressures.

He noted the annual walk was not a protest but a demonstration of unity and determination. “We walk not in anger, but with purpose – to defend human rights. Not as spectators, but as active participants in building a Nigeria where every voice counts and no one is left behind,” he said.

The Executive Secretary stressed that human rights can only thrive in societies that embrace harmony, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.

He added that the awards presented during the ceremony were a tribute to organisations and individuals whose courage and consistency have helped strengthen the commission’s mandate.

Reaffirming the NHRC’s statutory duty, Ojukwu noted that protecting and promoting human rights cannot be the responsibility of the commission alone.

He called for collaboration across ministries, government agencies, the private sector and communities.

He appealed that: “Together, let us build a nation where human rights are not distant ambitions but everyday realities,” he urged, adding that, “Our collective effort remains the driver of progress.”