By Omar Bah
The Nigerian Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, emphasized Nigeria’s enduring commitment to international peace and security during his address at the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York. He highlighted Nigeria’s extensive peacekeeping contributions, citing its involvement in 41 peacekeeping missions globally since its first deployment in the Congo in 1960.
Minister Badaru advocated for the reform of the UN Security Council to ensure permanent representation for Africa, stating that this would bolster global stability. He underlined Nigeria’s significant role in international security, mainly through its peacekeeping operations in various African countries such as Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, The Gambia, Liberia, Mali, Sudan, and Sierra Leone. Minister Badaru also reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering dedication to supporting UN efforts in combating terrorism.
Overall, Minister Badaru’s addresses underscored Nigeria’s substantial contributions to international peacekeeping, a fact that should be appreciated and respected by the global community. He also made a compelling case for Africa’s permanent representation on the UN Security Council.
