Nigeria’s Brigadier General Gabriel Olufemi Esho has been appointed as the Deputy Force Commander of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).
The first Nigerian to hold the position within MINURSO, Brigadier General Esho took over from Commodore Faustina Boakyewwa Anokye from the Ghana Navy in a colorful ceremony at MINURSO headquarters.
General Esho, who hails from Ondo State, is a member of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) 46th Regular Course. He holds a degree in Mathematics and a Masters degree in Strategic Studies.
MINURSO was established by the UN Security Council in 1991 with the primary objective of overseeing the referendum on self-determination for the people of Western Sahara.
The mission has long been regarded as one of the most challenging, yet crucial, peacekeeping operations in the world. Brigadier General Esho’s appointment as Deputy Force Commander not only recognizes his exceptional military skills but also highlights the UN’s commitment to diversifying its peacekeeping forces.
Esho, in his new role, is expected to help strengthen the mission’s mandate and ensure the safety and well-being of the local population in Western Sahara.
The mandate in MINURSO includes actively engaging with the Sahrawi people, fostering dialogue, and promoting trust within the communities as a way of achieving sustainable peace in the Area of Responsibility (AOR).
Reflecting on his accomplishment, Brigadier General Esho expressed deep gratitude for the support he has received, emphasizing the importance of diversity within global peacekeeping missions.
He stated that representation is essential for meaningful and lasting change. Undoubtedly, his appointment will serve as an inspiration to aspiring Nigerian military personnel and young individuals across Africa.
As the first Nigerian to to occupy the Deputy Force Commander in MINURSO position, Brigadier General Esho is undeniably a trailblazer as his appointment “not only embodies Nigeria’s commitment to global peace and security but also paves the way for a more inclusive and representative future for peacekeeping missions worldwide.
The highlight of the event was the transfer of baton/handing over between the outgoing and in-coming DFC which was witnessed by the Head of Mission and Special Representative of the Secretary-General Mr Alexander Ivanko, Force Commander Major General MD Fakhrul Ahsan and other top management staff of the Mission as well as Military Observers and Civilian Staff.