Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Amb. Jimoh Ibrahim, has called for urgent global action to address rising geopolitical tensions, arms proliferation, and emerging security threats.
Ibrahim made the call while welcoming participants of the United States Army War College during their visit to the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the UN in New York.
He said the UN must respond proactively to “heightened geopolitical tensions and major power competition.”
The Nigerian envoy also highlighted emerging threats posed by artificial intelligence, cyber warfare, autonomous weapons, and illicit arms transfers.
“The challenges brought about by emerging technologies and artificial intelligence are significant,” Ibrahim said.
“The rise of autonomous weapons, drones, cyber warfare and AI-driven military technology makes it difficult to define, regulate or verify arms limitations.
“It is crucial for the military to respond proactively to these issues,” he added.
Ibrahim said President Bola Tinubu remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s military capacity through substantial funding, improved welfare, and deeper international partnerships.
“His administration is dedicated to providing substantial funding for military operations, exploring innovative approaches, and ensuring excellent welfare for service members.”
He described the visit by the college participants as a reflection of the enduring strategic relations between Nigeria and the United States in advancing global peace and security.
Ibrahim commended the college for producing strategic leaders capable of navigating the complexities of modern conflict and global security.
The Nigerian envoy highlighted the outstanding achievements of Nigerian military officers trained at the institution, describing them as evidence of the professionalism and resilience of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Notable alumni of the college include former President Muhammadu Buhari, late Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, and Col. Charles Nengite.
He noted that Col. Nengite made history by breaking a 38-year record to emerge as the top international graduate of the institution.
“Their successes are a shining testament to the resilience and consistently excellent performance that define the Nigerian Army,” Ibrahim said.
He also expressed delight at the participation of Col. Timothy Ajato of the Nigerian Army in the visiting delegation.
The ambassador said Nigeria was intensifying diplomatic engagement at the UN in line with President Tinubu’s vision of promoting innovation, peace, security, and investment through global cooperation.
According to him, Nigeria’s foreign policy remains focused on strengthening development, democracy, diaspora engagement, and demographic vitality.
The envoy also expressed confidence in Nigeria’s economic trajectory, citing recent assessments in the World Bank/IMF Global Economic Outlook 2026.
“Our country is on the right path in economic reform, with Nigeria’s impressive economic performance placing it sixth among major countries contributing to global GDP,” he stated.
Ibrahim, who holds a doctorate in Modern War Studies from the University of Buckingham, said the visit was the first official delegation he had received as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative.
Earlier, head of the U.S. Army War College delegation, Prof. John Hagl, said it was an honour to engage with the Nigerian delegation on the important role Nigeria plays in the United Nations.
“We are particularly blessed when we have a representative of your country with us at seminars. He has been a very proud Nigerian who has taught us all,” Hagl said.
He added that Col. Ajato was proud of Nigeria’s history, culture, and role in the world, “showing the humour, the kindness and the calm leadership that Nigerian citizens are known for.”
