By Nkechi Eze
Nigeria has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to strengthening the rule of law, enhancing human security, and promoting gender-inclusive access to justice across West Africa, as the nation hosted a high-level regional symposium in Abuja.
The symposium, themed “Rule of Law, Human Security, Accountability, and Gender Access to Justice in the ECOWAS Region,” brought together representatives from ECOWAS, the European Union, GIZ, the German Embassy, human rights institutions, and operational services from across the region. The event was formally opened by the Honourable Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, who welcomed participants and highlighted the critical importance of the gathering.
Delivering the Minister’s address, Dr. Tunji-Ojo described the symposium as “a timely and critical convergence of policy, principle, and purpose,” stressing the urgent need to remove systemic barriers that restrict access to justice, particularly for women, children, and vulnerable populations. He warned that “systemic gaps, cultural barriers, and institutional fragility are not peripheral concerns; they are direct constraints on human dignity, security, and sustainable development.”
The Minister emphasized that the rule of law is the foundation of democratic governance, requiring transparency, equality before the law, and protection for all citizens. He noted, however, that persistent gender disparities and weak accountability systems continue to undermine progress. Highlighting the broader concept of human security, he said it extends beyond the absence of conflict to include freedom from fear, freedom from want, and the assurance of dignity. Excluding women and marginalized groups from justice systems, he added, weakens societal stability and impedes national development.
Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Nigeria is advancing a transformative vision for its justice system. The Minister outlined key priorities, including ensuring efficient, equitable, and inclusive justice; addressing gender-based violence; strengthening legal and institutional frameworks to eliminate discrimination; enhancing the capacity of law enforcement, judicial, and custodial institutions; and promoting community-based initiatives that empower citizens to access justice with dignity and confidence. He also called for enhanced regional collaboration through ECOWAS to harmonize legal frameworks, share best practices, and address transnational threats such as human trafficking, violent extremism, and organized crime.
“The intersection of gender and justice is far more than a conceptual discourse; it is fundamental to peace, stability, and enduring development,” he stated. “Inclusive and accessible justice systems strengthen national cohesion and reinforce regional resilience. A society that fails to protect its most vulnerable cannot truly claim to uphold justice or security.”
In a welcome address, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (SAN), speaking on behalf of the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, urged participants to intensify efforts to strengthen justice systems and protect vulnerable populations, noting that women and children continue to face systemic discrimination, harmful cultural practices, and economic exclusion.
Goodwill messages from ECOWAS, the European Union, GIZ, the German Embassy, and other human rights institutions emphasized that the intersection of rule of law, human security, and gender equality is critical to peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region. Participants were encouraged to move beyond dialogue, translating discussions into actionable policies, programs, and partnerships that deliver measurable improvements in citizens’ lives.
Concluding the opening, the Honourable Minister reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering resolve to ensure that justice is not the privilege of a few, but an inalienable right for all, regardless of gender, status, or circumstance, while calling for impactful deliberations and strengthened regional collaboration.
