Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, on Monday reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting the United Nations’ efforts in maintaining international peace and security, calling on the international community to renew efforts to stem the tide of small arms and light weapons proliferation within the Sahel region.
Speaking at the Summit of the Future during the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, USA, Badaru emphasized Nigeria’s significant contributions to global peace and security since its first engagement in Congo in 1960.
He said that Nigeria has contributed to International Peace and Security in terms of troops, finance, logistics, and civilian experts to various African countries, including Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Mali, and Côte d’Ivoire. In addition Nigeria has played a key role in regional security and stability in West Africa and the Sahel.
The Minister therefore called on the United Nations Security Council to give just representation to Africa on a permanent basis at the UN Security Council, emphasizing its importance for conscientious global peace, inclusivity , security , deepening global peace and building trust.
Addressing emerging security threats, the Minister highlighted the need for comprehensive strategies to prevent and address emerging security threats by stopping of illegal financial flows which will help in preventing kidnapping , banditry and stemming illicit arms and light weapons flow.
“We urge the international community to renew efforts to address these security challenges,” Badaru said.
Securing Nigeria For The Elections, Daily Trust Editorial of Tuesday January 31, 2023