The Nigerian Armed Forces has deployed no fewer than 197 troops to the ECOWAS mission in the Gambia (ECOMIG).
The 197 troops underwent training at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peace Keeping Center (MLAILPKC), Jaji Military Cantonment in Kaduna.
While addressing the troops, the Nigerian Army Chief of Operations, Major General Uwem Bassey, said the troops underwent rigorous training to prepare them for their mission.
He said Nigeria has a long history of contributing to international peacekeeping efforts, with Nigerian peacekeepers earning global recognition for their leadership, bravery, and professional competence.
According to him, the troops are expected to maintain discipline, impartiality, and respect for human dignity while carrying out their mandate in The Gambia.
Bassey emphasized the importance of preventing Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA), stressing that any violation will be met with severe disciplinary action.
He reminded the troops to respect the local laws and traditions of the people of The Gambia and to uphold the values that define Nigeria as a great nation.
“You are not only representatives of Nigeria but also ambassadors of peace for the entire West Africa.
“Sexual exploitation and abuse have no place in our world. They violate everything that the United Nations stands for.
“You carry the Green-White-Green flag into a land seeking stability, order, and hope. You are going, not as conquerors, but as guardians of peace protecting lives, building trust, and restoring dignity where it has been lost,” he stressed.
Bassey said the Nigerian Army has played key roles in restoring peace and stability in conflict zones across Africa and the world.
“From Lebanon to Liberia, Sierra Leone to Sudan, Nigerian peacekeepers stood firm in defence of the oppressed, the vulnerable, and those caught in the crossfire of war.
“Nigerian peacekeepers have repeatedly earned global citations and medals for leadership, bravery, and professional competence.
“Today, Nigeria remains a pillar of international peace efforts, with our troops performing exceptionally well in The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Abyei in South Sudan.
“The current security situation in Gambia is relatively stable; however, there are ongoing challenges that require attention to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.”
He charged the troops to be disciplined, respectful, and professional in peacekeeping operations.
Earlier, the Commandant of Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peace Keeping Center, Major General Ademola Adedoja, said graduation marks the completion of the Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) for Nigerian Contingent 10 ECOWAS Mission in the Gambia (ECOMIG).
Adedoja said earlier in the first quarter of this year, the centre successfully trained the United Nations Interim Security Force 3 for Abyei.