The Nigerian Senate has confirmed Dr Salamatu Suleiman as Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), alongside 10 other nominees appointed to the commission’s Governing Council.
The confirmation followed the consideration and adoption of a report submitted by the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters during Wednesday’s plenary session.
The lawmakers approved the appointments after the committee reported that the nominees possessed the qualifications, professional experience and competence required to serve on the commission’s governing body.
Senate Committee Clears NHRC Nominees After Screening
Presenting the committee’s findings, its chairman, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, who represents Ondo State under the All Progressives Congress (APC), explained that the Senate had referred the nominations to his committee for assessment.
He said the screening exercise took place on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.
According to Adegbonmire, committee members examined the nominees’ curriculum vitae and supporting documents before reaching their recommendations.
The review considered their educational backgrounds, professional experience, familiarity with human rights issues and suitability for the responsibilities ahead.
The committee chairman said the nominees met the necessary requirements and urged his colleagues to approve their appointments.
Senator Says Human Rights Protection Must Remain a Priority
Supporting the committee’s recommendation, Senator Ekong Samson of Akwa Ibom State said the nominees were qualified to contribute to strengthening human rights protection in Nigeria.
He described respect for human rights as a responsibility that transcends political affiliations and national boundaries.
Samson maintained that the calibre of individuals selected for the council demonstrated the importance of the commission’s mandate.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for nominating individuals whom he considered capable of advancing the country’s human rights objectives.
Full List of Confirmed NHRC Governing Council Members
In addition to Dr Salamatu Suleiman, who was confirmed as chairman, the Senate approved the following 10 members:
1. Hauwaila Ibrahim
2. Edmund Obiagwu
3. Ogunji Kingsley
4. Oluwakemi Okenyoodo
5. Adedeji Adekunle
6. Ayo Adewuyi
7. Mohammed Adelodun
8. Eze Anaba
9. Maupe Ogun-Yusuf
10. Patience Udoh
The confirmed members are expected to contribute their expertise to the commission’s governance and oversight responsibilities.
Akpabio Congratulates Newly Confirmed Council
Senate President Godswill Akpabio congratulated Suleiman and the other confirmed nominees following the adoption of the committee’s report.
He expressed hope that the council members would discharge their responsibilities with fairness and a strong commitment to justice.
Akpabio also praised the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for completing the screening process promptly.
He commended lawmakers for their cooperation in considering the appointments.
What the NHRC Governing Council Means for Human Rights Protection
The National Human Rights Commission is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights in Nigeria.
Its work includes examining complaints of alleged rights violations, supporting public awareness, conducting research and advising relevant authorities on human rights matters.
The Governing Council provides an important institutional framework for the commission’s oversight and policy direction.
With the Senate’s confirmation of the chairman and 10 members, attention will turn to how the new council supports the commission’s statutory mandate.
The appointments come at a time when public confidence in human rights institutions remains important to the protection of civil liberties, access to justice and accountability in Nigeria
