Nigeria wins UN Human Rights Council seat with 172 votes

Nigeria has secured a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2027–2029 term after polling 172 votes in an election conducted by the UN General Assembly.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the outcome in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, on Wednesday.

Nigeria was elected on October 13 alongside 14 other countries to serve a three-year term beginning January 1, 2027, and ending December 31, 2029.

The country secured 172 of the 181 votes cast in the election, according to the ministry.

The ministry said the result reflected “the confidence of UN Member States in the country’s commitment to promoting and protecting human rights”.

It added that Nigeria would work with other member states to advance the council’s mandate and strengthen international cooperation on human rights.

“The Federal Government expresses its appreciation to UN Member States for their support,” the statement said.

It reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to “constructive dialogue, multilateral cooperation, human dignity, justice and the protection of fundamental freedoms”.

The Human Rights Council comprises 47 member states and is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights worldwide.