Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has reaffirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to global peace and multilateral cooperation during the commemoration of the 2025 International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers held in Abuja on Tuesday.
General Musa, who delivered the keynote address at the solemn occasion, said the event was a moment to honour the sacrifices of peacekeepers who have served under the United Nations flag across various conflict zones around the world.
“The International Day of UN Peacekeepers is not merely ceremonial,” he 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.”
Themed “Fit for the Future, Building Better Together,” this year’s commemoration strongly reflects Nigeria’s approach to peacekeeping and international collaboration. General Musa stressed that no single country can singlehandedly address modern security challenges, including terrorism, climate crises, and pandemics.
He reiterated the need for joint action, unity of purpose, and adherence to the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter.
“Nigeria has remained a steadfast contributor to UN peacekeeping efforts since independence,” the CDS noted. “Our troops have served with honour and distinction in numerous conflict zones, earning Nigeria a respected position as one of Africa’s leading contributors to UN missions.”
General Musa commended the professionalism of Nigerian peacekeepers—whether as contingents, observers, mediators, or commanders—who continue to serve with distinction across various missions. He also emphasized the Armed Forces’ ongoing reforms under his leadership to remain agile and mission-ready.
“We are committed to nurturing a professional, people-centric military that can effectively fulfil its constitutional responsibilities in a joint and collaborative environment,” he said.
The CDS further pledged to deepen Nigeria’s cooperation with the United Nations not only in peacekeeping operations but also in areas of disaster response, civil-military relations, and sustainable development.
He concluded by expressing profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support. He also paid tribute to all peacekeepers, especially Nigeria’s fallen heroes, who made the ultimate sacrifice for global peace.
“We salute their courage and honour their legacy,” General Musa declared.
