On Friday, June 14, the Nigerian Armed Forces announced the deployment of 197 personnel for a peacekeeping mission in the Gambia.
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The Chief of Operations of the Nigerian Army, Maj-Gen. Boniface Sinjen, made the announcement in Jaji, Kaduna State, during the graduation ceremony of the troops from Nigerian Company 9, part of the Economic Community of West African States Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that, the 197 troops commenced their Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) on May 4 at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji, Kaduna State.
According to him, the Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) aligns with the commitment of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to deploy competent peacekeepers in support of international peace and security.
He mentioned that the training had provided them with the essential tactical skills and knowledge needed 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 would ensure your success in the mission area.
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“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.
“Your mission comes at a critical time, as The Gambia faces a period of uncertainty and instability,“ he said.
Maj-Gen. Boniface Sinjen stated that the political crisis in the country has impacted the lives of numerous innocent civilians, and their presence will help maintain the current peace and stability in the region.
“Your role is crucial in maintaining peace, protecting lives and promoting sustainable development.”
Sinjen urged them to strictly follow the ECOWAS mandate, which governs their mission and ensures their actions are in line with the principles of peace, stability, and human rights.
“Remember that your conduct will not only reflect on yourselves but also your country, the ECOWAS region and the international community” he stated.
He mentioned that the Armed Forces of Nigeria maintain a policy of zero tolerance towards sexual exploitation and abuse, in accordance with United Nations’ guidelines.
”Therefore, any form of sexual exploitation and abuse will be met with severe consequences.
“As ambassadors of the armed Forces of Nigeria and our great nation, you must uphold the esteemed values and enviable image of this country,“ Sinjen said.
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