African Region IHRC, 1209 Mountain Road Place NE #5090, Albuquerque, NM (2026)

10/15/2026

PRESS RELEASE

IHRC Commends Nigerian Army for Civil-Military Cooperation in Adamawa State

ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA — October 15, 2026 — The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Corporation / INTERPOL Center USA (ICA) has commended the Nigerian Army’s leadership in Adamawa State for engaging with communities, addressing civilian concerns and supporting constructive civil-military relations.

The commendation follows a mid-year report submitted by IHRC North-East Regional Coordinator Comrade Tukur Mustapha, covering monitoring, community engagement and security-sector advocacy activities conducted between May and August 2026 in Hong, Lamurde, Madagali, Yola, Mubi North and Mubi South.

The report documented engagement with military authorities on human-rights concerns, property seizures, security restrictions and emerging tensions between farmers and herders. It also highlighted IHRC’s follow-up after the reported shooting of Suleiman Alhaji Habu, popularly known as “Washa,” in Mubi North on August 2, 2026.

According to the report, IHRC representatives visited the survivor, documented his complaints and engaged with military authorities. The Commanding Officer in Mubi reportedly visited the survivor three times and provided financial assistance to his family, while the investigation remained ongoing.

To strengthen evidence-based advocacy, IHRC conducted a KoboTool-supported assessment in Mubi North and Mubi South, comprising 74 key informant interviews and four focus group discussions. The findings informed further engagement on community grievances and early-warning concerns relating to land allocation, crop destruction and livestock movement.

IHRC also acknowledged Brigadier General A. O. Agwu, Commander of the 23 Armoured Brigade; Lt. Colonel Eleje, Garrison Commander; and Colonel A. A. Adekuoroye, Commanding Officer in Mubi, for their reported cooperation and engagement with issues raised during the mission.

The report identified the adjustment of the Keke Napep operating restriction in Mubi, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., as an example of dialogue addressing community concerns.

H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, reaffirmed IHRC’s commitment to professional human-rights monitoring, institutional cooperation and the protection of human dignity.

Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu, National Coordinator of the Special Monitoring Mission, emphasised the importance of sustained engagement among security institutions, local communities and independent human-rights monitors to strengthen public confidence and prevent conflict.

IHRC stressed that human-rights protection and national security are complementary responsibilities. The Commission called for continued dialogue, accountability and evidence-based interventions to address legitimate grievances, strengthen community trust and prevent local disputes from escalating into violence.

The Commission reaffirmed its readiness to serve as a constructive bridge between communities and security institutions, noting that lasting peace depends on mutual respect, lawful conduct and a shared commitment to protecting lives and property.

About IHRC

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Corporation is engaged in human-rights monitoring, humanitarian initiatives, community engagement and advocacy for the protection of human dignity. Through its mission activities, IHRC seeks to promote constructive dialogue, accountability and cooperation in addressing humanitarian and human-rights concerns.

Media Contact

Fidelis Onakpoma
Head, Media & Strategic Communications
IHRC Mission Nigeria

10/02/2026

*Independence at 66: IHRC Urges Nigerians to Prioritize Peace, National Interest Above Politics*

As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Corporation / INTERPOL Center USA, Nigeria Mission, led by H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, extends warm greetings to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora and calls for renewed commitment to peace, unity, human dignity and responsible citizenship.

Independence is more than the celebration of a historic date. It is a continuing responsibility to protect the dignity and fundamental rights of citizens, uphold the rule of law, strengthen justice and build a nation in which every Nigerian can live with hope, security and opportunity.

Nigeria belongs to all of us. Our ethnic, religious, regional and cultural diversity should not become a source of division, but a foundation for mutual respect, national cohesion and collective progress. Whatever our differences, we remain bound by a common destiny and a shared responsibility to preserve the peace and stability of our country.

As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, IHRC urges political leaders, supporters, public commentators and citizens to exercise restraint and responsibility in their words and conduct. Political competition is an essential part of democracy, but it must never become a justification for hate speech, ethnic or religious provocation, misinformation, intimidation or violence.

No political ambition should take precedence over the lives and dignity of our citizens or the peace of our country. Elections are temporary, but Nigeria is our common home. Our democratic differences must therefore be managed through lawful, peaceful and responsible means.

The Mission also calls on Nigerian youths to participate actively and constructively in democratic affairs. The youth are not merely the future of Nigeria; they are already part of the responsibility of shaping its present and determining its direction. Their energy and aspirations should be channelled towards nation-building rather than exploited to deepen division.

We must continue to work towards a Nigeria where the voice of the ordinary citizen matters; where children can grow and dream without fear; where young people have meaningful opportunities; where women and vulnerable persons are treated with dignity; and where fundamental rights are respected and protected.

The media also has an important responsibility in this period. Accurate, balanced and responsible reporting remains essential to informed citizenship and a healthy democracy. Public discourse should enlighten rather than inflame, and accountability should be pursued without compromising national cohesion.

Independence calls every generation to renew the national promise. The sacrifices of those who fought for Nigeria's freedom must inspire us to build a country worthy of their courage and worthy of the hopes of generations yet unborn.

As we celebrate 66 years of independence, IHRC calls on Nigerians to choose dialogue over hostility, unity over division, responsible citizenship over political provocation, and the common good over narrow interests.

H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah
Head of Mission,
International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Corporation / INTERPOL Center USA, Nigeria Mission

09/30/2026

U.S. Trademark Registration

International Human Rights Commission

United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
U.S. Registration No.: 7147325
U.S. Serial No.: 99408555

Registered Owner:
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Mark: INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION — Word and Design Mark

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International Class 036:
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First Use Anywhere: February 10, 2025
First Use in Commerce: February 10, 2025

Description of the Registered Mark

The registered mark consists of a distinctive design comprising two concentric ovals surrounded by laurel branches. The wording “INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION” appears in stylized lettering between the two ovals, with two five-pointed stars separating the wording.

Inside the inner oval is a stylized American flag in an oval design.

The registration records that color is not claimed as a feature of the mark.

Protection of the Registered IHRC Mark

The registered IHRC mark is an important element of the institutional identity of International Human Rights Commission IHRC Corporation in the United States.

Any unauthorized use of the registered mark, including reproduction, imitation, copying or use in commerce in circumstances that constitute trademark infringement, may be subject to enforcement under applicable United States federal trademark law, including the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1114 et seq.

International Human Rights Commission IHRC Corporation reserves all rights to enforce its federally registered trademark and to pursue appropriate legal remedies against qualifying unauthorized use.

Official USPTO Records

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U.S. Registration No. 7147325
U.S. Serial No. 99408555

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09/23/2026

IHRC DELEGATION IN DAKAR, SENEGAL — COP17 UNCCD REPORT & REGIONAL CLIMATE DIALOGUE 🇸🇳🇨🇮🌍

On 23 September 2026, representatives of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Côte d’Ivoire, led by H.E. Fofana Vamara, MBA, were present in Dakar, Senegal, as part of the IHRC Country and Regional Programme.

During the visit, the delegation transmitted its Official Report on participation in the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, from 17–28 August 2026.

The delegation also held an exchange with Dr. Sékouna Diatta, Director of the Pan-African Agency of the Great Green Wall, concerning the report and regional climate priorities, including:

🌱 Land restoration and ecosystem recovery
🌍 Combating desertification and land degradation
☀️ Climate change adaptation and mitigation
💧 Resilience to drought and environmental pressures
🤝 Technical exchange and regional cooperation
💰 Mobilisation of partnerships and sustainable financing

The discussions also included the possibility of future exchanges and potential areas of cooperation relating to climate action, restoration of degraded lands and sustainable development in Africa.

The IHRC delegation presented the outcomes, observations and recommendations arising from its participation in COP17 and continued its regional dialogue on environmental and climate-related priorities.

Dakar, Senegal | 23 September 2026

IHRC Côte d’Ivoire Delegation
H.E. Fofana Vamara, MBA
Point Focal Pays / Regional Coordinator / Commissioner, IHRC Côte d’Ivoire

08/27/2026

IHRC HONORARY OFFICE IN CÔTE D’IVOIRE AT COP17 UNCCD

Pastoralism and Knowledge Systems: Strengthening Climate Resilience Across Africa’s Drylands

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia | 26 August 2026

Representatives of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Honorary Office in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire participated in activities held during the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (COP17 UNCCD) in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

The discussions focused on the important theme of “Pastoralism and Knowledge Systems”, addressing the growing climate and environmental challenges affecting Africa’s drylands and the pastoral and agro-pastoral communities whose livelihoods depend on these ecosystems.

Climate Change and Africa’s Drylands

Climate change is intensifying droughts, land degradation and other environmental pressures across Africa’s drylands, creating increasing risks for ecosystems and communities.

Pastoralism remains one of the important adaptation strategies for dealing with climate variability and plays a significant role in strengthening the resilience of communities living in dryland regions.

However, pastoral and agro-pastoral communities continue to face increasing climate risks, including limited access to reliable climate information, early warning systems and tools supporting anticipatory action.

Earth Observation and Artificial Intelligence

The discussions highlighted the growing potential of Earth Observation (EO) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as tools for improving climate resilience and environmental management.

These technologies can contribute to:

* improved drought monitoring;
* early identification of environmental risks;
* more effective rangeland management;
* improved climate information services;
* early warning and anticipatory action;
* better-informed decision-making;
* strengthening the resilience of pastoral and agro-pastoral communities.

At the same time, unlocking the full potential of these technologies requires stronger partnerships, inclusive governance, responsible data use and meaningful participation of local communities.

Knowledge, Technology and Local Communities

A key message emerging from the discussions is that technological innovation should complement, rather than replace, traditional and local knowledge.

Pastoral communities possess generations of experience in managing dryland ecosystems, adapting to climate variability and responding to changing environmental conditions.

Combining traditional knowledge, scientific research, Earth Observation, Artificial Intelligence and climate information systems can create more effective and locally relevant approaches to climate adaptation and land management.

IHRC Perspective

The participation of representatives of the IHRC Honorary Office in Côte d’Ivoire reflects the organization’s interest in strengthening cooperation at the intersection of human rights, climate action, environmental protection, biodiversity, desertification and sustainable development.

IHRC recognizes that protecting the rights and livelihoods of communities affected by climate change and land degradation must remain an integral part of international climate and environmental action.

The development of inclusive knowledge systems and responsible technological solutions can help ensure that vulnerable communities are not only beneficiaries of climate action, but also active participants in designing and implementing solutions.

IHRC Representatives

The activities were supported by representatives and technical advisers of the IHRC Honorary Office in Côte d’Ivoire:

Mr. KOUASSI Abohaya Koffi Justin
Technical Advisor for Climate Affairs;

Dr. BELANFONTE Bitty Rocard Max
Technical Advisor for Climate Affairs;

Ms. KOUYATE Kadidja
Technical Advisor;

Mr. ALOU YAO ANGE
Technical Advisor for Climate Affairs.

The team operated under the supervision of:

Mr. FOFANA VAMARA
Country Focal Point | Country Representative | Regional Coordinator | IHRC Commissioner
Republic of Côte d’Ivoire

Commitment to African Climate Resilience

The IHRC Honorary Office in Côte d’Ivoire remains committed to supporting dialogue, knowledge exchange and technical cooperation aimed at strengthening Africa’s capacity to address climate change, drought, desertification and land degradation.

The discussions at COP17 UNCCD demonstrate the importance of bringing together science, technology, traditional knowledge, responsible data governance and community participation to develop effective and sustainable climate solutions for Africa’s drylands.

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
26 August 2026

For the IHRC Honorary Office – Republic of Côte d’Ivoire

FOFANA VAMARA
Country Focal Point | Country Representative | Regional Coordinator | IHRC Commissioner
International Human Rights Commission – Côte d’Ivoire
Country & Regional Programmes IHRC | 2021–2030

Official IHRC Website: www.ihrchq.org

08/27/2026

IHRC REPRESENTED AT COP17 UNCCD IN ULAANBAATAR

African Coalition Against Illegal Mining and Land Degradation Officially Launched

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia | 27 August 2026

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) was represented at the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (COP17 UNCCD) in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, by representatives of the IHRC Honorary Office in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire.

During the COP17 UNCCD proceedings, the African Coalition Against Illegal Mining and Land Degradation was officially launched by H.E. Abou BAMBA, Minister of Environment and Ecological Transition of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, in the presence of representatives of African countries supporting this continental initiative.

Active Participation of the IHRC Honorary Office

Representatives of the IHRC Honorary Office in Côte d’Ivoire actively participated in activities related to the initiative, contributing to technical exchanges, consultations, coordination and cooperation with participating stakeholders.

Their participation reflects IHRC’s commitment to supporting international and African cooperation in the areas of climate action, environmental protection, biodiversity, combating desertification, land restoration and sustainable management of natural resources.

A Coordinated African Response

The launch of the Coalition represents an important step towards strengthening a coordinated African response to the environmental, social and economic consequences of illegal mining.

Key challenges include:

* land degradation and destruction;
* pollution of soil and water resources;
* biodiversity loss;
* deforestation and ecosystem destruction;
* impacts on local communities and their livelihoods;
* social and economic consequences of illegal mining activities.

IHRC supports an integrated approach linking human rights protection, environmental security, responsible natural-resource governance and sustainable development.

IHRC Representatives

The IHRC Honorary Office in Côte d’Ivoire was represented by:

Mr. FOFANA VAMARA
Head of the IHRC Honorary Office in Côte d’Ivoire and Country Focal Point;

Mr. KOUASSI Abohaya Koffi Justin
Technical Advisor for Climate Affairs;

Dr. BELANFONTE Bitty Rocard Max
Technical Advisor for Climate Affairs;

Ms. KOUYATE Kadidja
Technical Advisor;

Mr. ALOU YAO Ange
Technical Advisor for Climate Affairs.

Commitment to Continued Cooperation

The IHRC Honorary Office in Côte d’Ivoire remains committed to supporting dialogue, technical cooperation, knowledge exchange and capacity building among African States, international institutions, civil society and other relevant partners.

The objective is to contribute to practical solutions addressing illegal mining, land degradation, desertification, biodiversity loss and climate-related challenges, while strengthening the resilience of affected communities.

The participation of the IHRC Honorary Office at COP17 UNCCD demonstrates the importance of connecting climate action, environmental protection, human rights and sustainable development within a common African and international cooperation framework.

International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) reaffirms its readiness to contribute to international and African initiatives aimed at protecting people, ecosystems and natural resources and building a more resilient and sustainable future.

⸻

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
27 August 2026

For the IHRC Honorary Office – Republic of Côte d’Ivoire

FOFANA VAMARA
Country Focal Point | Country Representative | Regional Coordinator | IHRC Commissioner
International Human Rights Commission – Côte d’Ivoire
Country & Regional Programmes IHRC | 2021–2030

Official IHRC Website: www.ihrchq.org

08/27/2026

For many vulnerable populations, poverty is not only an economic challenge; it can deepen exposure to human rights violations, exploitation, discrimination, unsafe living conditions, displacement, and exclusion from essential services and opportunities.

The launch of Nigeria’s $1 billion Renewed Hope Social Protection Programme (HOPE-SP) therefore comes at a significant moment. Beyond the figures and policy framework lies a broader question: can social protection help restore dignity, strengthen resilience and reduce the conditions that leave vulnerable people at greater risk of rights violations?

There is reason to hope that, when implemented transparently, inclusively and with strong accountability, initiatives of this nature can become a light in the tunnel for families and communities that have endured prolonged hardship.

From a human rights perspective, the focus must remain on the people, ensuring that protection reaches those who need it, opportunities are accessible without discrimination, and vulnerable Nigerians are empowered to move from survival towards dignity, participation and self-reliance.

HOPE is strongest when it reaches the last person in the line.

07/30/2026

As the world marks the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, I join the global community in calling for stronger collective action against the evolving crime of human trafficking, particularly the growing threat of forced online scamming.

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation) remains steadfast in advancing prevention, strengthening institutions, protecting victims, and promoting international cooperation to dismantle trafficking networks.

Through our initiatives, including the Nigeria Child Protection Compact (CPC) Readiness Assessment and Strategic Framework, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that no child, woman, or man is exploited, and that communities are empowered to stop trafficking before it begins.

Prof. h.c. Rafal Marcin Wasik
Secretary-General, IHRC Corporation / ICA

07/29/2026

*World Day Against Trafficking in Persons - 30 July 2026*

Tomorrow, the world commemorates the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons under the theme: "Trapped Behind the Scam."

The IHRC Corporation Mission in Nigeria urges all Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) Officials to actively monitor, document, and report activities commemorating the Day across their respective states. Where possible, participate in events organized by government agencies, civil society, and development partners, and submit photographs, videos, and brief reports for national documentation and media publication.

As we advance the Nigeria Child Protection Compact (CPC) Readiness Assessment and Strategic Framework (2027–2032) in strategic partnership with NAPTIP, let us reaffirm our commitment to protecting children, preventing trafficking, and strengthening community action against exploitation.

Signed:

H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah
Head of Diplomatic Mission
IHRC Corporation Mission in the Federal Republic of Nigeria

African Region IHRC

10/15/2026

10/02/2026

09/30/2026

09/23/2026

08/27/2026

08/27/2026

08/27/2026

07/30/2026

07/29/2026

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