By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has underscored the importance of dialogue and consultation as essential tools for building and sustaining regional peace.
He made the call while delivering the keynote address at the Fourth Plenary Session of the 12th Beijing Xiangshan cc Forum in China.
Speaking on the theme “Upholding International Order and Promoting Peaceful Development,” Badaru stressed that constructive engagement remains the most effective means of preventing conflict and advancing security.
“Dialogue succeeds where confrontation fails. It is the foundation on which lasting security is built,” he said.
The Defence Minister highlighted Nigeria’s extensive peacebuilding record, citing the country’s leadership role in ECOWAS interventions in Liberia, Sierra Leone and The Gambia; contributions to the Multinational Joint Task Force against insurgency; and domestic initiatives such as the Niger Delta Amnesty Programme and Operation Safe Corridor.
Additionally, he maintained that even complex crises can be resolved when dialogue is backed by inclusion, legitimacy, and sustained commitment. Linking his remarks to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Badaru noted that Nigeria’s strategic autonomy and proactive engagement in international affairs continue to shape its contributions to global peace and stability.
He urged global leaders to embrace dialogue, consultation, and collaboration as shared responsibilities in preserving international order and promoting peaceful development.
