A non-governmental organization, Barr. Victor’s Foundation for Humanity and Human Rights, has asked governments to empower and support vulnerable citizens through socioeconomic policies so as to move large number of Nigerians out of “poverty net into social safety net”.
The foundation decried a situation whereby “the basic human qualities among citizens that translate into a great people and nation are fast ebbing out in our society” and noted that, “no nation can become great where the basic human qualities like compassion, empathy, love, kindness and patriotism are non-existent or dwindling”.
This was contained in a New Year goodwill message signed by the Executive Director, Victor Onyekachi,
obtained by our correspondent.
The statement urged “government and citizens to prioritize humanity, empathy and compassion in 2025” with a view to supporting “the economically marginalized and socially excluded population”.
The foundation posited that government at all levels should govern with “absolute respect for the dignity of the governed”, respect for the fundamental human rights of citizens as contained in the 1999 Constitution, as well as other ratified instruments on human rights.
“Every individual” it stated, “deserves to be treated with humanity, dignity and respect, regardless of his or her background, origin, ethnicity, religion, creed or social status”.
In line the NGO’s core mandate of promotion of humanity, human rights, provision of free legal services to victims of human rights violations and promotion of good governance among others, the group further suggested that “government should be intentional about allowing humanity to be expressed through policies, programs and social contract with citizens.
“Policy makers and frontline leaders across all sectors should therefore model humanity and uphold respect for the dignity of Nigerians, especially in administering the resources of the nation which they hold in trust for the citizens.
“Without apparent humanity in governance, national progress and development will be a mirage,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the foundation which noted that “national development is a collective responsibility of all citizens” also called on citizens to shun crimes, remain patriotic by supporting government policies, and engaging government on public policies and issues that affect them.
