Abuja: The Devatop Centre for Africa Development has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to strengthen collaboration on human rights promotion. The partnership is also geared towards survivor-centred responses to abuse across the country.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, the Executive Director of Devatop, Joseph Osuigwe, stated that the partnership was designed to improve timely and safe access to justice for survivors. Osuigwe highlighted that the initiative marked a strategic partnership aimed at protecting the rights and dignity of survivors while advancing coordinated human rights interventions nationwide.
Under the agreement, both organisations will work together to support survivors of human rights abuses, including gender-based violence, human trafficking, exploitation, and other forms of abuse. The partnership provides a framework for joint activities in survivor support, public awareness, capacity building, advocacy, and community engagement with a strong emphasis on access to justice and effective referral pathways.
A major component of the collaboration is the adoption of the ‘TALKAM App’ as a reporting and digital case management platform. The TALKAM App offers a safe and accessible channel for individuals to report human rights abuses and connect with verified support organisations, while prioritising confidentiality, survivor safety, and dignity, particularly for those facing barriers in accessing help.
Osuigwe explained that through its digital case management system, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and relevant institutions could receive referrals, document cases, track progress, and coordinate responses more effectively. As part of the MoU, the NHRC will function as a case management organisation on the TALKAM App, receiving and handling referred cases that fall within its statutory mandate.
Highlighting the importance of timely reporting and support, Osuigwe mentioned, “For survivors, access to justice often depends on how quickly and safely they can report abuse and receive support. By working with the NHRC and leveraging the TALKAM App, we are strengthening a system that listens and responds. This partnership brings us closer to a reality where survivors are not left to navigate these challenges alone.”
Responding, the Head of Legal, NHRC, Hajia Rabi Anwal, noted that the Commission’s participation in case management and referrals through the TALKAM App would strengthen accountability and coordination. “Our participation will enhance accountability, improve coordination and ensure that reported cases are handled professionally and with the seriousness they deserve,” Anwal said.