What has been the role of Nigeria as a member of the United Nations Organisation?

Answer Details

Since joining the United Nations Organisation in 1960, Nigeria has played an active and constructive role. Its contributions include the following:

1. Peacekeeping operations: Nigeria has contributed troops and police to numerous UN peacekeeping missions in the Congo, Lebanon, the former Yugoslavia, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Darfur and elsewhere, earning a reputation as a leading contributor.
2. Opposition to colonialism and apartheid: Nigeria consistently used the UN platform to campaign for the decolonisation of Africa and for the dismantling of the apartheid regime in South Africa.
3. Financial contributions: Nigeria has met its financial obligations by paying its assessed dues and contributing to various UN programmes and agencies.
4. Participation in UN organs and agencies: Nigerians have served in the General Assembly, the Security Council (as a non-permanent member on several occasions), and specialised agencies such as UNESCO, WHO and UNICEF, with citizens holding important UN positions.
5. Support for world peace and disarmament: Nigeria has supported UN efforts at peaceful settlement of disputes, disarmament and the reduction of international tension.
6. Promotion of human rights: Nigeria has supported UN conventions and declarations on human rights, refugees and the welfare of women and children.
7. Advocacy for reform: Nigeria has consistently canvassed for the reform and democratisation of the UN, including the expansion of the Security Council to give Africa permanent representation.