Nigeria Wins UN Human Rights Council Seat for 2027–2029 Term with 172 Votes

Nigeria has been elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2027–2029 term after securing 172 votes in a secret ballot conducted by the UN General Assembly on October 13, 2026.

The Federal Government announced the result in an official statement released on Wednesday in Abuja and signed by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Oluwafemi Adeniyi.

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

The ministry described the outcome as a reflection of international confidence in Nigeria’s commitment to advancing human rights and improving human rights conditions globally.

“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 47-member Human Rights Council is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights around the world. Nigeria’s election will provide the country with another opportunity to participate in international discussions and initiatives addressing human rights concerns.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed appreciation to United Nations member states for supporting Nigeria’s candidature. It also reaffirmed the country’s commitment to dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect in its engagement with other nations.

“Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to sustaining dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect with Member States, and looks forward to working closely with Council Members in advancing the mandate of the Council and strengthening international efforts towards the promotion and protection of human rights,” the statement added.

The ministry further said Nigeria remained committed to constructive multilateral engagement and supporting initiatives that uphold human dignity, justice and respect for fundamental freedoms.

Nigeria’s new term is scheduled to begin in January 2027, when the country will join other elected members in carrying out the council’s mandate for the next three years.