Human Life and Human Rights in Nigeria: An Assessment Amidst Security Challenges and Rights Violations 2019 – 2026

The protection of human life and human rights is a fundamental obligation of every state. In Nigeria, persistent insecurity and recurring human rights violations have raised significant concerns about the effectiveness of these protections. This paper is anchored on Human Security Theory as its theoretical framework. Data were collected from secondary sources, while thematic content analysis was used to analyze the data. The study critically examines the extent to which human life and human rights are safeguarded in Nigeria, drawing on empirical evidence from credible institutional reports and documented real-life experiences. It further analyzes patterns of violations involving both state and non-state actors. Findings reveal a substantial gap between constitutional guarantees and actual practice, characterized by insecurity, weak institutional accountability, and systemic governance challenges. The study concludes that although legal frameworks exist, their implementation remains inadequate. Recommendations are proposed to strengthen accountability, reform security institutions, and enhance human rights protection mechanisms.