By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Maupe Ogun-Yusuf and Bola Ahmed Tinubu |
ABUJA, NIGERIA — In a major move to strengthen Nigeria’s human rights landscape, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated renowned broadcast journalist and Badagry indigene, Maupe Ogun-Yusuf, to the Governing Board of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
The President’s request was formally presented in a letter read by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, during plenary on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. The nomination of the seasoned Sunrise Daily co-host has sparked widespread celebration across the Badagry Federation, as residents hail the inclusion of one of their most distinguished voices in the federal corridors of power.
The reconstitution of the NHRC board is aimed at enhancing the institutional capacity of the commission to discharge its mandate effectively. President Tinubu’s 15-member list features a mix of legal giants, media experts, and civil society leaders.
Alongside Maupe Ogun-Yusuf, other notable nominees include: Dr. Salamatu Hussaina Suleiman (Chairman) Dr. Anthony Ojukwu, SAN (Executive Secretary), Mr. Eze Anaba (President, Nigerian Guild of Editors) and Mr. Chinonye Obiaku, SAN
The President stated that these appointments, made pursuant to Section 2(3) of the NHRC (Establishment) Act 2010, are critical for "improving accountability and protecting the fundamental rights of all Nigerians."
Maupe Ogun-Yusuf’s journey from the classrooms of the University of Lagos to becoming a household name on Channels Television has been marked by a relentless pursuit of truth. Her nomination is seen by many as a testament to her years of holding public officials accountable.
In Badagry, local leaders and youth groups have described the appointment as a strategic win for the constituency.
"Maupe has always been a symbol of excellence for us in Badagry. Her nomination to the NHRC isn't just a win for the media; it’s a win for justice and a recognition of the quality of leaders our ancient city produces," a community stakeholder remarked following the announcement.
Following the formal reading of the letter, the Senate referred the list of nominees to its Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters. The committee, chaired by Senator Mohammed Monguno, has been tasked with screening the candidates and submitting a report within two weeks.