The Nigerian government has renewed its call for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, citing its extensive contributions to global peacekeeping efforts. During the 79th UN General Assembly, Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to international peace, noting the deployment of over 200,000 troops across 41 peacekeeping missions since its first mission in Congo in 1960.
In his address at the Summit of the Future, Badaru emphasized the need for reform in the UN Security Council to ensure Africa is adequately represented. He argued that such representation would enhance global stability, stating, “Nigeria has been unequivocal in its commitment to international peacebuilding and security.”
The minister outlined Nigeria’s involvement in various peacekeeping operations in regions including Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, and Mali, contributing significantly in terms of finances, logistics, and expertise. He called for the operationalization of the African Standby Force to strengthen African military capabilities against terrorism.
Additionally, Badaru urged comprehensive strategies to combat transnational crime and illegal arms trafficking, particularly in the Sahel region. He highlighted the urgent need to address the growing connections between bandits and terrorists, emphasizing the importance of preventing and early detection measures.
He concluded by calling on the international community to intensify efforts to control the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in conflict zones, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to combating organized crime and promoting regional stability.