Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution guarantees fundamental rights: right to life (s.33), dignity of human person (s.34), personal liberty (s.35), freedom of expression (s.39), peaceful assembly and association (s.40), freedom of movement (s.41), and right to property (s.44). These rights are enforceable by any citizen through the High Court. Section 46 allows enforcement by any person whose rights have been violated, and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) provides additional avenues for redress.

Alongside rights, Nigerian citizens have duties: payment of taxes (s.24), respect for the Constitution and national symbols (s.23), defence of Nigeria (s.22), and service on electoral duties when called upon. Section 24 also requires citizens to promote the good name of Nigeria. The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Act requires Nigerian graduates under 30 to participate in the one-year national service. Civic duties form the foundation of responsible citizenship.

Political rights include: right to vote and contest elections (s.40), right to form or belong to a political party (s.40), and right to political participation. The Electoral Act 2022 further defines the conditions for voting and candidacy. Every Nigerian citizen who is at least 18 years old and registered with INEC has the right to vote. The right to contest requires meeting specific qualifications outlined in the Constitution (e.g., age, education, party membership). These rights form the backbone of Nigeria's democratic system.