On Friday, the Armed Forces of Nigeria announced the deployment of 197 personnel for a peacekeeping mission in
The Gambia, despite the ongoing security issues within Nigeria, including banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping.
The Chief of Operations for the Nigerian Army, Maj-Gen. Boniface Sinjen, disclosed this deployment during the graduation ceremony of the Nigerian Company 9 Economic Community of West African States Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG) troops in Jaji, Kaduna State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the troops began their Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) on May 4 at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji, Kaduna State.
Maj-Gen. Sinjen emphasized that the PDT aligns with the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja’s commitment to deploying quality peacekeepers to support international peace and security. He stated that the training had equipped the troops with essential tactical skills and knowledge for peace support operations.
“It has prepared you for the protection of civilians and the accomplishment of assigned tasks under the ECOMIG mandate. You have learned the importance of teamwork, leadership, and cultural sensitivity, as well as other factors that will ensure your success in the mission area,” Sinjen said.
“You have been trained in the latest techniques and procedures for maintaining peace and stability in a complex environment and instilled with the values of discipline, respect for human rights, and compassion for the people you are going out there to protect.”
Sinjen noted that their mission comes at a critical time for The Gambia, which is facing a period of uncertainty and instability.
The country’s political crisis has adversely affected many civilians, and the Nigerian troops’ presence aims to sustain peace and stability in the region. “Your role is crucial in maintaining peace, protecting lives, and promoting sustainable development,” he added.
He urged the troops to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights, adhering strictly to the ECOWAS mandate. “Remember that your conduct will not only reflect on yourselves but also on your country, the ECOWAS region, and the international community.
Approach all interactions with sensitivity and respect, and be mindful of the local customs, traditions, and socio-political dynamics of the mission area,” Sinjen advised.
He reiterated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria maintains a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, in line with United Nations policies, warning that any form of sexual exploitation and abuse will result in severe consequences.
Maj-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, the Commandant of MLAILPKC, highlighted that the six-week training was intense and comprehensive, conducted in line with the Standard UN Core Pre-Deployment Training Modules.
The deployment underscores Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability, even as the nation grapples with its own internal security challenges.
