The initiative was designed to create a platform where citizens and security agencies could openly engage, share perspectives, and work together toward building safer communities rooted in mutual respect and accountability.

In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Tony Ojukwu, who was represented by Dr. Kelechi Akubueze, emphasized that human rights and security are not opposing goals. He noted that respect for human rights strengthens security institutions because communities are more willing to cooperate with law enforcement agencies when trust exists.

Speaking on behalf of LICDA, the Operations and Partnership Lead, Mrs. Chukwu Gloria Chidiebere, explained that the dialogue was organized to bridge the gap between citizens and security agencies, providing an opportunity for open communication, learning, and collaboration.

Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the National Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee, Otunba Bolaji Adigun, highlighted the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts and addressing challenges within communities. According to him, consistent engagement between citizens and security institutions is essential for sustainable peace and community development.

A representative of the Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Department, Odoh O. Fidelis, also spoke about existing complaint and accountability systems that allow members of the public to report misconduct by police officers. He reassured participants that officers found guilty of violations are investigated and sanctioned accordingly.

As part of the program, a panel discussion was held to deepen the conversation on trust, accountability, and cooperation between citizens and security institutions. The panel featured representatives from the police, a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and a civil society participant, who shared experiences and perspectives on how citizens and security agencies can work together more effectively.

The event brought together representatives from several security agencies including the Nigeria Police Force, the Police Community Relations Committee, and the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), alongside members of the National Youth Service Corps. Through dialogue, training, and shared learning, participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration and promoting human rights in Nigeria.

This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in our collective effort to promote justice, accountability, and stronger trust between citizens and security agencies across Nigeria.

The MoU was signed under the Building Trust Project, an initiative aimed at improving relationships between communities and security institutions. The project is supported by Legal Empowerment Fund and the Fund for Global Human Rights.

Through this collaboration, LICDA and NHRC Nigeria will work together to:

• Promote human rights awareness and education
• Encourage constructive dialogue between citizens and security agencies
• Strengthen accountability and justice mechanisms
• Support security institutions in upholding the highest human rights standards
• Build sustainable community engagement platforms

This Memorandum of Understanding represents more than a formal agreement, it is a practical step toward creating safer communities where citizens feel heard, respected, and protected.

At LICDA, we believe that lasting peace and development depend on trust, transparency, and mutual respect. By working closely with NHRC Nigeria and key stakeholders, we are committed to moving from tension to trust and from silence to constructive engagement.

We also recognize the important role of grassroots collaboration and look forward to continued engagement with partners such as Grassroot Justice Network.

LICDA remains dedicated to empowering citizens, strengthening institutions, and advancing sustainable development through strategic partnerships and evidence-based advocacy.

Together, we are building communities where justice is not only demanded, but delivered.

The hike was more than just a walk — it was a movement to challenge stigma, promote understanding, and encourage acceptance. Through meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and visible community support, we reaffirmed our collective commitment to saying no to discrimination and yes to inclusion, dignity, and respect for everyone living with vitiligo.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all our partners, sponsors, volunteers, and participants who made the event impactful and memorable. Your dedication continues to drive awareness and inspire positive change within our communities.

LICDA… making impact, one step at a time.

📸 Photo Credit: @Oluyemi Abodurin

During the visit, our team was introduced to the University’s Law Clinic, which will serve as a key partner in advancing this initiative. The Law Clinic’s practical approach to legal education and community engagement makes it an ideal collaborator in promoting awareness of fundamental human rights and strengthening access to justice for everyday citizens.

This partnership aims to create impactful sensitisation programmes, community outreach activities, and legal awareness campaigns designed to help individuals understand their rights and confidently engage with law enforcement within the framework of the law. By equipping citizens with knowledge, we take a proactive step toward reducing abuse, fostering accountability, and building trust between communities and institutions.

At LICDA, we strongly believe that sustainable change cannot happen in isolation. It grows from intentional partnerships, shared expertise, and consistent engagement with stakeholders who are committed to justice and social progress. Our collaboration with the University of Abuja represents one more step toward a future where human rights are respected, protected, and upheld.

Together, we move forward — one conversation, one partnership, and one community at a time.

We engaged in meaningful dialogue with the Dean of Law, David Andah Angbazo, on promoting legal empowerment, strengthening police-community relations, and fostering youth-centered justice solutions.

Grateful for the warm reception and shared commitment to advancing justice and accountability through academic and civic collaboration.

Together, we are working towards building trust, accountability, mutual respect, and safer communities.

This project is a community-based approach aimed at reducing law enforcement abuse and fostering healthier, more respectful relationships between the Police and Nigerian Youths.

We are excited to collaborate with forward-thinking law enforcement leaders committed to change, accountability, and community trust. Together, we can build a safer and more just society.

At the core of our conversation was a shared commitment to sensitizing citizens and continuous capacity building of both the public and the police to foster mutual respect, accountability, and better community relations.

We are grateful to the Executive Secretary of the @nhrcnigeria, Dr Tony Ojukwu OFR SAN, and the Commission’s management team for the warm reception and their generous provision of learning materials to support our work.

With partnerships like this, the Building Trust Project is gaining ground and momentum.

The purpose of the meeting was to formally inform him of our intention to carry out a community sensitization program under our Building Community Power through Building Trust Project.

This engagement marks another step in strengthening collaboration with community leaders to ensure effective awareness, inclusivity, and impact.

@licdaafrica remains committed to this project.

Partnership with community leaders is key to building safer, more inclusive communities.

After being trained as Community-Based Paralegals, one of the corps members has taken the knowledge back into her community. Educating others on their rights, responsibilities, and peaceful engagement.

This is what sustainability looks like.
This is how trust is built, one community at a time.
From training to action. From knowledge to impact.
We’re proud of our corps members for carrying the work forward.

#BuildingTrust#CommunityPower#LegalEmpowerment#NYSC#AccessToJustice LICDAAFRICA