Brigadier General Gabriel Esho, a Nigerian national, has commenced his role as the newly appointed Deputy Force Commander of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).
The News Agency of Nigeria’s UN correspondent reports that Esho’s appointment as Deputy Force Commander in MINURSO marks a significant milestone, as he is the first Nigerian to hold this esteemed position.
This appointment underscores Nigeria’s dedication to global peace and security and signals a move toward greater inclusivity and representation in peacekeeping missions worldwide.
Esho’s achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a noteworthy moment for Nigeria on the international stage.
The transition ceremony took place at MINURSO HQ in Laayoune, featuring a military parade on Friday, symbolizing the handover between Esho and the departing Deputy Force Commander, Commodore Faustina Boakyewaa Anokye from the Ghana Navy.
The ceremony, overseen by Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of Mission Alexander Ivanko, alongside Force Commander Major-General MD Fakhrul Ahsen, included a speech by the SRSG praising Anokye’s outstanding contributions to MINURSO. She was honored with a UN medal in recognition of her exceptional service.
The occasion included the symbolic passing of a baton from Anokye to her successor, Esho, with oversight from the Force Commander, Major-General MD Fakhrul.
The Nigerian Army, in a post on its official Twitter account @HQNigeriaArmy, hailed Esho’s appointment as a historic moment for Nigeria and Africa.
“Undoubtedly, his appointment will serve as an inspiration to aspiring Nigerian military personnel and young individuals across Africa.
“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.
“With Brigadier General Esho at the helm, MINURSO will undoubtedly see a renewed spirit and an empowered force working towards peace and reconciliation in Western Sahara.”
Reflecting on his achievements, Esho expressed profound gratitude for the support he has received, underscoring the importance of diversity in global peacekeeping endeavors and stressing that inclusive representation is vital for meaningful and enduring progress.
Esho’s appointment as Deputy Force Commander not only acknowledges his outstanding military capabilities but also underscores the UN’s commitment to diversifying its peacekeeping forces.
As Brigadier General, Esho’s foremost objective will be to fortify the mission’s mandate and ensure the safety and welfare of the local populace in Western Sahara. His vision for MINURSO encompasses active engagement with the Sahrawi people, facilitating dialogue, and fostering trust within communities. He firmly believes that sustainable peace hinges on mutual understanding and collaborative efforts.
Hailing from Ondo State in western Nigeria, Esho demonstrated remarkable determination and an unwavering dedication to serving others from a young age, which propelled him toward a military career.
Graduating from the prestigious Nigerian Defense Academy as a member of the 46th Regular Course, he holds an honorary degree in mathematics and a master’s degree in strategic studies. Throughout his tenure, Esho has exhibited tenacity, resilience, and a profound understanding of strategic military operations.
His adeptness at quick thinking and his profound grasp of intricate regional dynamics positioned him as a natural candidate for diverse peacekeeping missions across Africa.
His outstanding performance quickly garnered the attention of the United Nations, which acknowledged his remarkable potential and entrusted him with a role in MINURSO.
Established by the UN Security Council in 1991, MINURSO’s primary mandate is to supervise the referendum on self-determination for the people of Western Sahara.
The mission is widely recognized as one of the most arduous yet indispensable peacekeeping endeavors globally.