By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has restated Nigeria’s enduring commitment to international peace and multilateral cooperation during the 2025 International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers commemoration, held in Abuja on Wednesday, 28 May.
According to an official signed statement by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director Defence Information, General Musa described the commemoration as both a solemn and significant moment to honour the sacrifices of men and women who have served in global peacekeeping missions under the United Nations.
“The International Day of UN Peacekeepers is not merely ceremonial,” General Musa stated. “It is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have dedicated their lives to the noble cause of global peace and security. It also reaffirms our shared commitment to the ideals upon which the United Nations was founded.”
This year’s theme, “Fit for the Future, Building Better Together,” aligns closely with Nigeria’s approach to peacekeeping and global cooperation. General Musa emphasized that the challenges of the modern era ranging from terrorism to climate change and pandemics cannot be resolved in isolation, urging unity of purpose among nations.
“No nation can effectively address today’s complex security challenges alone. The need for collective action and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter has never been more urgent,” he noted.
Highlighting Nigeria’s longstanding contributions, General Musa reaffirmed the country’s status as a steadfast supporter of UN peacekeeping since independence. He praised Nigerian troops who have served in various roles, from observers to mission commanders, across numerous conflict zones.
“Our troops have served with honour and distinction, earning Nigeria a respected place among the leading African contributors to UN missions,” he said.
He further commended the professionalism of Nigerian peacekeepers and reiterated his leadership vision of building a “people-centric Armed Forces of Nigeria, capable of fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities in a joint and collaborative environment.”
General Musa also underscored the military’s readiness to continue collaborating with the United Nations not only in peacekeeping but also in humanitarian response, civil-military engagement, and sustainable development.
He also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast support as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and paid tribute to Nigerian peacekeepers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
“We salute their courage and honour their legacy,” the CDS concluded.
The event formed part of global observances recognizing the contributions and sacrifices of UN peacekeepers, reaffirming Nigeria’s firm stance in promoting peace and stability on the international stage.
