The United Nations has officially declared July 7 every year as World Amotekun Day in honour of the Ondo State chapter of the Western Nigeria Security Network, also known as Amotekun Corps.
This recognition, announced on Monday in Akure, celebrates Amotekun’s significant contributions to regional security and its role in combating crime across Nigeria’s South-West.
According to a statement by the Ondo State Commander of Amotekun, Adetunji Adeleye, the announcement was made by Ambassador Dr. Markwili Mgbara, Director of Information and Communications at the International Association of World Peace Advocates.
Mgbara explained that the affiliation was granted under the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) consultative status and through the peace advocacy group. He noted that Amotekun is the first state-owned security outfit in Nigeria to receive such global recognition.
The certificate confirms Amotekun’s alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in the areas of peace, safety, and sustainable communities.
“Amotekun has helped reduce crime, secure highways, support farmers, and protect lives and property. This recognition is a result of those efforts,” Mgbara said.
As part of the recognition, Amotekun will now be eligible to participate in international security and human rights meetings, including the upcoming UN 80th Anniversary event scheduled for September 2025 in New York.
Commander Adeleye, who also chairs the Council of Amotekun Commanders, dedicated the honour to God and Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for providing the support that has allowed the security agency to grow.
Reflecting on the corps’ early days, Adeleye said many farmers had abandoned their farms due to insecurity, and businesses were suffering. “Today, we have seen a return to farming and commerce, thanks to Amotekun’s presence and government backing,” he said.
He assured residents, farmers, and travellers that Amotekun would continue working with other security agencies to ensure safety, even though no society is entirely crime-free.