Nigeria has been elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2027–2029 term after securing 172 votes out of 181 in an election conducted by the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the election in a press release issued by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, in Abuja on Wednesday, describing the outcome as a reflection of the confidence of UN member states in Nigeria’s commitment to promoting and protecting human rights.
Nigeria was elected alongside 14 other countries to serve a three-year term beginning on January 1, 2027, and ending on December 31, 2029.
As a member of the 47-member council, Nigeria is expected to work with other member states to advance the body’s mandate and strengthen international cooperation on human rights.
The Federal Government expressed appreciation to UN member states for their support, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to constructive dialogue, multilateral cooperation, human dignity, justice and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
The UN Human Rights Council is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights around the world, addressing human rights violations and making recommendations on how they can be prevented and resolved.
