In a significant effort to address the challenges faced by indigent populations in Nigeria, Thecoaches, managed by Blessing Inyang, through its international franchise; Miss Face of Humanity Nigeria (MFOH Nigeria) on Wednesday convened a one-day Stakeholders Dialogue on the Rights of Indigents at the prestigious National Human Rights Commission.
The event, held under the theme “Protecting the Rights of Indigents; Problems and Solutions for The Nigerian State,” brought together distinguished guests, activists, and experts to deliberate on strategies and solutions to protect the rights of indigents.
The event gathered prominent personalities, human rights activists, legal experts, representatives from civil society organizations, United Nations, Diplomats, and government officials who came together to deliberate on the dire situation faced by indigents in Nigeria. The dialogue aimed to shed light on the issues, promote awareness, and advocate for the effective protection of their rights.
Welcoming Guests at the event; Miss Face of Humanity Nigeria; Amb. Chika Rita Ezenwa emphasized the urgency and significance of protecting the rights of indigents. She highlighted the importance of recognizing and upholding their fundamental human rights as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights instruments.
In his keynote address, the National Human Rights Commission’s Executive Secretary, Tony Ojukwu SAN represented by Mrs. Agarase Arase; Director, of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to protecting human rights in Nigeria.
She underscored the significance of addressing the challenges faced by indigent populations and stressed the importance of collective efforts to safeguard their rights. She further highlighted the role of the commission in advocating for human rights and pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at protecting the rights of indigents.
During the panel discussions, it became evident that indigents face multiple challenges, including limited access to quality education, inadequate healthcare facilities, and a lack of employment opportunities. The participants stressed the urgent need for collaborative efforts between government agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector to tackle these issues effectively.
Moreover, the stakeholders through presentations from the Public Complaints Commission, Legal Aid Council, and ActionAid Nigeria deliberated on the significance of legal frameworks and policies that promote inclusivity and protect the rights of indigents.
They called for the implementation of measures to ensure equitable access to education, improved healthcare services, and viable employment options, which would alleviate the plight of indigents and empower them to contribute meaningfully to society.
Earlier, Amb. Alfredo Miranda, the Ambassador of Mexico to Nigeria, captivated the audience with a thought-provoking presentation on promoting the rights of indigents. His insights and experiences shed light on successful strategies employed in Mexico and offered inspiration for potential solutions in Nigeria.
The dialogue concluded with a set of recommendations that will be presented to relevant government bodies and institutions. The recommendations highlighted the need for comprehensive social welfare programs, increased funding for indigent-focused initiatives, and the establishment of monitoring mechanisms to ensure the effective implementation of policies.
Read Also: MFOH Nigeria Leads the Fight Against Period Poverty
By fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and exploring sustainable solutions, the dialogue instilled a sense of optimism and determination among all participants. It is evident that this event will serve as a catalyst for positive change, empowering stakeholders to take concrete actions and create an inclusive society where the rights of indigents are safeguarded.
By Ken Gbados.
