BG Esho makes history as first Nigerian appointed as UN’s MINURSO Commander

A Nigerian Army officer, Brigadier General Gabriel Olufemi Esho, has made history as the first Nigerian appointed as Deputy Force Commander of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).

The Nigerian Army said Esho’s appointment marked a significant milestone for the country and the continent of Africa at large in global peacekeeping efforts.

“It was a groundbreaking moment for Nigeria and the African continent when Brigadier General Gabriel Olufemi Esho made history as he was officially appointed as the Deputy Force Commander of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO),” the statement read.

“This prestigious position not only marks a personal achievement for Brigadier General Esho but also signifies a significant milestone for Nigeria, as he becomes the first Nigerian to hold such a position within MINURSO.”

In a colourful ceremony, Brigadier General Esho who hails from Ondo State in western Nigeria took over from Commodore Faustina Boakyewwa Anokye from the Ghana Navy.

The Army added that from a young age, Esho showed great determination and an unwavering commitment to serving others, which led him to pursue a career in the military.

After graduating from the prestigious Nigerian Defense Academy as a member of 46th Regular Course with an honorary degree in Mathematics and a master’s degree in Strategic Studies, his dedication and exceptional leadership qualities quickly garnered attention.

Throughout his career, Brig Gen Esho displayed fierceness, resilience, and a remarkable grasp of strategic military operations.

According to the statement, his ability to think on his feet and a deep understanding of complex regional dynamics made him a natural choice for various peacekeeping missions across Africa.

His stellar track record soon captured the attention of the United Nations, which recognized his incredible potential and appointed him to MINURSO.

MINURSO was established by the UN Security Council in 1991 with the primary objective of overseeing the referendum on self-determination for the people of Western Sahara.

The mission has long been regarded as one of the most challenging, yet crucial, peacekeeping operations in the world.