Nigeria wins a seat on the UN Human Rights Council with 172 votes, securing a three-year term from January 2027 to December 2029
Nigeria has been elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2027–2029 term after securing 172 votes in a secret ballot at the UN General Assembly.
Also read: Adeleke Arrives Abuja for APC Presidential Campaign Council Inauguration
The election was held on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, with Nigeria receiving 172 of the 181 votes cast, according to a statement issued by the Federal Government on Wednesday.
The statement, released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, said Nigeria was elected alongside 14 other countries.
Nigeria’s three-year term will begin on January 1, 2027, and end on December 31, 2029.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described Nigeria’s election as a reflection of international confidence in the country’s commitment to advancing human rights and improving human rights conditions globally.
The government also expressed appreciation to United Nations member states for supporting Nigeria’s candidature.
“Nigeria’s election reflects international confidence in its commitment to advancing human rights and improving human rights conditions across the world,” the statement said.
The ministry added that Nigeria would continue to promote dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect among member states.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to working with other members of the council to advance its mandate and strengthen international efforts to protect fundamental rights.
“Nigeria reiterates its commitment to constructive multilateral engagement and supporting initiatives that uphold human dignity, justice and respect for fundamental freedoms,” the statement added.
The government said it looked forward to working closely with other council members to promote and protect human rights internationally.
The United Nations Human Rights Council is a 47-member intergovernmental body responsible for promoting and protecting human rights around the world.
Its work includes addressing human rights violations, making recommendations and examining the human rights records of UN member states through established mechanisms.
Also read: Adeleke Arrives Abuja for APC Presidential Campaign Council Inauguration
Nigeria’s election will give the country a seat on the council for the 2027–2029 period, during which it is expected to participate in discussions and decisions concerning the council’s global human rights mandate.
