October 24th – United Nations Day – marks 80 years since the UN’s founding in 1945, a global call for peace, human rights, and progress. Today, we honor this mission through Nigeria’s journey – a nation of unyielding strength, scarred by tragedy, yet leading Africa’s charge for a brighter future.
Nigeria joined the UN in 1960, days after independence, becoming a peacekeeping powerhouse. Ranking fifth globally in troop contributions, it bolstered missions like Liberia’s UNMIL, restoring hope post-conflict. But Nigeria’s path has known deep sorrow. On August 26, 2011, Boko Haram’s suicide bombing struck the UN House in Abuja, killing 23 – mostly UN staff – and injuring over 100. This devastating attack, Nigeria’s first major suicide bombing targeting an international entity, exposed the growing terror threat. Since 2009, Boko Haram’s insurgency has displaced millions, attacking schools and communities, yet Nigeria stands firm. Through the UN’s 2023-2027 Framework, it fights terrorism, supports displaced families, powers small businesses with solar grids, and empowers women in peacebuilding. Nigeria’s resilience shines as it champions Africa’s demand for two permanent Security Council seats with veto power, alongside Egypt and South Africa, a call bolstered by US support in 2024.
The UN, uniting 193 nations, amplifies Nigeria’s voice. While observers like the Holy See and Palestine and non-members like Kosovo and Taiwan navigate global complexities, Africa – with 54 nations and 1.4 billion people – seeks greater representation, providing 40% of UN peacekeepers. Led by nine Secretaries-General, from Trygve Lie (1946-1953) to António Guterres (2017-present), the UN has mediated conflicts like the 1953 Korean War armistice and Mozambique’s 1992 peace accord, inspiring Nigeria’s fight for stability.
This United Nations Day, we celebrate Nigeria’s courage and Africa’s rising spirit. From the ashes of tragedy, a united world dreams on. Here’s to 80 years – and to the peace we seek, the unity we strive for, and the equality we deserve. Happy United Nations Day!
