• Calls it a global honour for Yoruba initiative
• Urges South-West states to strengthen Corps for greater impact

The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, yesterday, expressed appreciation over the declaration of July 7 as World Amotekun Day by the United Nations (UN), describing the development as a “major international validation” of the South-West security initiative.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, the Afenifere lauded the UN and the South-West governors, particularly the late Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), who spearheaded the formation of the Amotekun Corps.

Ajayi said: “The recognition of Amotekun by the United Nations is unprecedented and a significant morale booster. It is a testament to the visionary leadership of those who birthed and sustained the security network against all odds.”

It would be recalled that this global recognition was formalised last week when Ambassador Peer Stafsen, President of the World Peace (an affiliate of the UN), through a delegation led by Ambassador (Dr) Markwili Mgbara, presented a Certificate of Affiliation to the Commandant of the Ondo State Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, in Akure.

The certificate was issued under the auspices of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and the International Association of World Peace Advocates.

However, the Amotekun has now been granted observer status at the United Nations meetings on global security and human rights, scheduled to start with the 80th UN General Assembly in New York on September 22, 2025.

Stafsen affirmed that the certification “confirms the affiliation of Ondo State Amotekun Corps as a trained security unit recognised by the United Nations,” adding that Amotekun’s activities align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in promoting peace, safety, and human rights.

According to Afenifere, Amotekun’s journey from regional initiative to global recognition is remarkable, particularly given the initial opposition from the Federal Government under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The group recalled how attempts were made to frustrate the Corps in its formative stages, but the unity and resilience of the South-West governors ensured its survival.

It urged the South-West governors to leverage this historic UN recognition by equipping the Corps with advanced tools, resources, and adequate welfare to enhance their operational effectiveness.