On Wednesday, Abuja hosted the 2025 International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, commemorating the 77th anniversary of UN peace operations alongside the 80th anniversary of the United Nations itself. The event highlighted Nigeria’s decades-long dedication to global peacekeeping, with both UN and Nigerian military officials lauding the country’s pivotal role in international security.
United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, emphasized Nigeria’s remarkable contribution: “Since gaining independence in 1960, over 200,000 Nigerian troops, police, and civilians have served in 41 UN, African Union, and ECOWAS missions, 23 in Africa and 18 beyond.” He further noted Nigeria’s leadership in volatile regions such as Liberia, Sierra Leone, Darfur, and Mali, underscoring the country’s commitment to peace.
Fall also acknowledged the sacrifices made, stating, “Nigeria has borne a heavy price, with 124 Nigerian peacekeepers lost between 1948 and 2015.” He expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s ongoing participation, which “has saved countless lives beyond its borders.”
Highlighting the evolving nature of conflict, Fall warned of emerging threats including terrorism, cyber warfare, and climate-induced crises. He called for enhanced multilateral cooperation and innovation in peacekeeping operations, emphasizing the need for “improved protection for civilians, technological innovation, rapid deployment capabilities, and stronger regional partnerships.”
General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the UN Charter and peacekeeping principles. “No single nation can withstand today’s global threats alone. Multilateralism remains essential,” Musa said. He praised Nigerian peacekeepers’ service in some of the world’s most dangerous regions and stressed the importance of adapting military strategies to new security challenges.
The ceremony concluded with solemn tributes to fallen peacekeepers and a renewed pledge to uphold peace, justice, and dignity worldwide.
