AFRICAN UNION AND HUMAN RIGHTS DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines the role of the African Union (AU) in the development and promotion of human rights in Nigeria, with particular attention to the institutional, normative and practical mechanisms through which the continental organisation influences human rights protection. The study is premised on the problem that, despite Nigeria’s commitment to regional and international human rights instruments, persistent challenges including insecurity, unlawful killings, discrimination, restrictions on civic freedoms, displacement and weak accountability mechanisms continue to affect the effective enjoyment of human rights. The study adopts a qualitative research methodology, relying primarily on secondary data obtained from AU legal instruments, policy documents, reports of relevant Nigerian institutions, scholarly publications, books and credible international human rights reports. The study is anchored on human rights theory, which provides a framework for examining the principles, institutions and obligations underpinning the protection and advancement of human dignity. Findings indicate that the AU has contributed to human rights development in Nigeria through the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, regional monitoring mechanisms, normative standards, diplomatic engagement and the work of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights. However, the effectiveness of these mechanisms is constrained by limited enforcement capacity, gaps between regional commitments and domestic implementation, institutional weaknesses and inadequate accountability. The study concludes that AU–Nigeria human rights engagement remains significant but requires stronger implementation mechanisms. It recommends enhanced domestic incorporation and enforcement of AU human rights standards, improved cooperation between Nigerian institutions and AU bodies, strengthened monitoring and accountability mechanisms, and greater support for civil society and human rights institutions.