Nigeria's Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to expanding the country's footprint in international peace and security efforts. On September 23, 2026, General Musa attended the opening session of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, alongside Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, who led the Nigerian delegation. The Minister's attendance at the UNGA underscores Nigeria's dedication to global peace and security.
Following the opening assembly, General Musa paid an operational visit to the Defence Section at the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the United Nations. During the visit, he received a comprehensive briefing on the Section's strategic activities and operational commitments from the Defence Attaché, Brigadier General EA Koleosho. The briefing provided valuable insights into Nigeria's current engagement in international peacekeeping operations and the country's plans to enhance its participation.
General Musa commended Brigadier General Koleosho and his team for their exemplary professionalism, steadfast loyalty, and commitment to upholding the highest ideals of both the United Nations and the Armed Forces of Nigeria. The Minister's remarks reflect the Federal Government's appreciation for the critical role played by Nigerian personnel in international peacekeeping operations. Nigeria has a long history of contributing troops to UN peacekeeping missions.
The Minister reiterated the resolve of the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to restore and expand Nigeria's active footprint in international peace and security efforts. This commitment is in line with the country's tradition of contributing to global peace and stability. Nigeria's participation in peacekeeping operations is expected to promote stability and security in regions facing conflicts.
General Musa emphasised that the administration remains deeply committed to reinvigorating Nigeria's participation in peacekeeping operations across the globe. The country's renewed commitment to international peace efforts is driven by the need to promote stability and security in an increasingly complex global environment. Nigeria's enhanced participation is expected to have a positive impact on global peace and security.
The Defence Minister's visit to the Defence Section at the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the United Nations provided an opportunity for him to assess Nigeria's current engagement in international peacekeeping operations. The visit also enabled General Musa to interact with Nigerian personnel serving with the United Nations and to commend them for their service. The Minister's engagement with Nigerian personnel reflects the government's commitment to their welfare.
The Federal Government's commitment to expanding Nigeria's footprint in international peace and security efforts reflects the country's recognition of the importance of global cooperation in promoting peace and stability. Nigeria's enhanced participation in peacekeeping operations is expected to contribute to the country's efforts to promote regional and global security. The country's commitment to international peace efforts is unwavering.
Key points
- Nigeria's Defence Minister, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, reaffirms the Federal Government's commitment to expanding the country's footprint in international peace and security efforts.
- The Minister attends the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, alongside Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima.
- Nigeria's participation in peacekeeping operations is expected to promote stability and security in regions facing conflicts.