CDS Musa: Nigeria Will Continue Leading Africa’s Push for Global Peace
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has restated the country’s enduring commitment to global peace and multilateral security cooperation, vowing that Nigeria will continue to lead Africa’s contribution to United Nations peacekeeping efforts.
Speaking at the 2025 International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers commemoration in Abuja, General Musa described the event as a “solemn and significant occasion” to honour the bravery and sacrifices of peacekeepers around the world.
“The International Day of UN Peacekeepers is not merely ceremonial,” the Defence Chief said. “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.”
A statement signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director Defence Information, on Wednesday in Abuja stated that this year’s global theme, “Fit for the Future, Building Better Together,” strongly aligns with Nigeria’s evolving approach to peacekeeping, military modernization, and multilateralism.
General Musa noted that in a world facing transnational threats from terrorism to pandemics international collaboration remains essential.
Read Also:
“No nation can address today’s complex security challenges alone,” he said. “Joint action, unity of purpose, and respect for international norms must remain our guiding principles.”
Highlighting Nigeria’s historic contributions, General Musa stated that the country has been a steadfast participant in UN peacekeeping missions since independence, with Nigerian troops deployed to conflict zones across Africa, the Middle East, and beyond.
“Our troops have served with honour and distinction, earning Nigeria a respected position as one of Africa’s leading contributors to UN missions,” he said.
He praised the integrity, discipline, and professionalism of Nigerian personnel serving as peacekeepers whether as contingents, observers, or mission commanders—and emphasized ongoing reforms within the Nigerian Armed Forces to better respond to emerging global threats.
Musa also outlined the expanding role of Nigeria’s military in non-combat global operations, including disaster response, civil-military engagement, and support for sustainable development goals.
Under his leadership, he said, the military remains committed to becoming “people-centric” and responsive to humanitarian needs, both within Nigeria and abroad.
The Defence Chief expressed heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued support for military diplomacy and peacekeeping operations.
He also paid tribute to fallen Nigerian peacekeepers whose service and sacrifice continue to shape a more peaceful world.
“We salute their courage and honour their legacy. Their sacrifice is the bedrock of our international standing, and we must never forget the cost of peace,” he added.
By PRNigeria
