In a landmark development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted Nigeria’s official ratification of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Rights of Older Persons. This pivotal decision, announced on October 24, has drawn praise from various quarters, with Amnesty International Nigeria’s Country Director, Isa Sanusi, commending the move.
“The ratification of this Protocol marks a vital step forward to protect the human rights of older people in Nigeria,” stated Isa Sanusi in response to the President’s approval. The Protocol, embedded within the African Charter, calls upon state parties to uphold the rights of older individuals, with a focus on preventing discrimination, ensuring access to healthcare, social protection, and support, and prioritizing them in humanitarian crises.
Nigeria, by taking this monumental stride, now stands poised to be a frontrunner in championing the cause of older people’s rights not just within its borders but across the African continent. Amnesty International is urging Nigeria to take an active role in encouraging other African states to follow suit and ratify the Protocol. This collective effort will significantly advance the protection of older people’s rights, preserving their dignity and human rights while ensuring their full realization and protection.
Amnesty International is also calling upon Nigeria to lend its wholehearted support to a United Nations convention specifically focused on the rights of older individuals. By doing so, Nigeria can play a pivotal role in ensuring that these fundamental rights become a reality for older individuals worldwide.
This significant move reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of older persons and sets a remarkable example for the broader African community. It underscores the nation’s dedication to the principles of equality, human rights, and dignity for all, regardless of age.
