By Taibat Ummi Yakubu
The United Nations has praised Nigeria for its longstanding contributions to international peacekeeping operations, describing the country as a major force in promoting peace, security, and stability across the world.
The commendation was made by the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Fall, during the commemoration of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers held on Wednesday in Abuja.
The event, organised by the United Nations in partnership with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), was themed “Invest in Peace” and served as a platform to honour the dedication and sacrifices of peacekeepers serving in conflict zones worldwide.
Speaking at the ceremony, Fall stressed that efforts to maintain peace within nations and peacekeeping missions abroad are closely connected, noting that both contribute to global stability and development.
He said the UN continues to recognise the sacrifices made by peacekeepers, paying tribute to more than 4,500 personnel who have lost their lives while serving under the UN flag, including 59 who died in active service in 2025.
Fall also acknowledged Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to strengthening peace and security domestically while maintaining a strong presence in international peace operations.
According to him, the UN remains committed to working with the Nigerian government, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, women, youths, and development partners to promote dialogue, human rights, humanitarian support, and sustainable development.
He noted that for almost eight decades, UN peacekeeping missions have played critical roles in protecting civilians, supporting democratic processes, strengthening state institutions, and helping conflict-affected societies transition to peace.
Fall revealed that more than two million individuals have served in UN peace operations since 1948, while over 87,000 military personnel, police officers, and civilians are currently deployed across various missions worldwide.
Highlighting Nigeria’s record, he said the country has contributed more than 200,000 military and police personnel to peacekeeping operations since 1966 and currently has 335 uniformed personnel serving in UN missions, including 138 officers from the Nigeria Police Force.
He described Nigerian peacekeepers as professionals who have served with distinction across Africa and other parts of the world, adding that the celebration was a recognition of their commitment and service.
Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Olatunji Disu, in his remarks, said peacekeeping operations often require immense courage and selfless service, with many personnel making the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of global peace.
Disu stated that the occasion provided an opportunity to honour fallen peacekeepers while reaffirming support for the principles and objectives of the United Nations.
He noted that contemporary peacekeeping operations face increasingly complex challenges, including emerging security threats, protection of civilians, institutional support in fragile states, technological risks, and rapidly changing conflict situations.
Also speaking, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, represented by Maj.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to supporting UN peace initiatives across the globe.
Shaibu said the Army would continue to strengthen its operational capabilities and professional capacity to effectively discharge its responsibilities in peacekeeping missions wherever deployed.
He called for greater investment in resources and support mechanisms to enable both civilian and military peacekeepers to successfully execute their mandates.
The ceremony attracted senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, security chiefs, and representatives of international organisations. It also featured contributions from ACP Janet Salami, who shared her experiences serving in a United Nations peacekeeping mission.
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