Abuja – Prof. Bem Angwe, Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), has reiterated the commission’s commitment to ensuring the promotion and protection of human rights of all persons living in Nigeria.
A statement by the commission’s Spokesperson, Fatima Agwai, on Saturday in Abuja, quoted Angwe as making the pledge when he paid a courtesy visit to the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Gu Xia Ojie.
In the statement, Angwe said that China was one of the countries that had high regards and respect for the rights of Nigerians.
“This is particularly for those who are legitimately engaged in genuine businesses in China.
“ Unlike what obtains in other countries, Nigerians go to China to do their businesses without being molested or harassed,’’ he said.
He told the ambassador that one of the mandates of the NHRC was to protect the rights of Nigerians and none Nigerians living in the country.
He, therefore, gave the assurance that Chinese, resident in Nigeria would have adequate and full protection of their rights as they went about their normal businesses.
While commending the bilateral relationship between Nigeria and China, Angwe advised that both countries should explore the possibilities of exchange programmes.
“We want a situation where staff of Nigeria and China’s human rights institutions can go for acquisition of practical working experiences in the discharge of their duties as human rights workers,’’ he said.
In his response, Ojie promised stronger bilateral collaboration with Nigeria, especially in the promotion and protection of human rights and economic development.
The envoy said both countries were developing economies in their regions and shared common values.
He added that China hoped to make impact in Africa and other parts of the world, especially as it was preparing to mark its 10th anniversary of strategic partnership with Nigeria in November.