The United Nations resident and humanitarian coordinator, Mohamed Fall, has commended Nigeria for playing a key role in peacekeeping, security, and stability worldwide.

Mr Fall, who disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja during the commemoration of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, observed annually on May 29, said peacekeeping abroad and at home are part of the same mission.

According to him, the UN solemnly honours the 4,500 peacekeepers who have lost their lives in the cause of peace, including 59 in 2025 alone.

Mr Fall said, “The UN commends the government of Nigeria for its continued efforts to strengthen peace, security, and stability across the country. Peacekeeping abroad and peacekeeping at home are part of the same journey. The UN remains committed to partnering with you in that journey.

“Together with the Government, civil society, traditional leaders, women, youth, and development actors, we support dialogue, social cooperation, human rights, humanitarian action, and sustainable development.”

He noted that for nearly 80 years, UN peacekeepers have protected civilians, supported elections, strengthened institutions, and helped societies move from conflict toward stability.

He added that more than 2 million people have served under the UN flag since 1948, and today, over 87,000 military, police, and civilian personnel continue this noble mission around the globe.

“Nigeria stands proudly in this history. Nigerian peacekeepers have served with distinction across Africa and beyond, with more than 200,000 troops and personnel deployed to peace operations globally since 1966.

“Today, Nigeria deploys 335 uniformed peacekeepers in UN missions, including 138 officers from the NPF. To those officers here and those serving under the UN flag globally, this gathering is a tribute to you,” he said.

Speaking, the inspector-general of police, Olatunji Disu, said peacekeeping often demands the ultimate sacrifice in the service of humanity, secured through extraordinary acts of courage, selflessness, and dedication.

“Today, we remember peacekeepers with gratitude and deep respect. We honour their memory and reaffirm our commitment to the ideals and values of the UN,” Mr Disu said.

He emphasised that modern peacekeeping missions must navigate complex security threats, engage diverse communities, support fragile institutions, protect civilians, tackle emerging technology challenges, and respond rapidly to evolving situations.

Army chief Waidi Shaibu said, “We as an army will therefore continue to strive to develop our capacity and capabilities in discharging our mandate wherever we are deployed. This calls for decisive action to ensure that civilian and military peacekeepers have the resources to carry out their mandates.”

(NAN)