The Armed Forces of Nigeria announced the deployment of 197 personnel for a peacekeeping mission in The Gambia, despite ongoing security challenges within Nigeria, including banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping.
Chief of Operations for the Nigerian Army, Maj-Gen Boniface Sinjen, revealed this deployment during the graduation of troops from Nigerian Company 9 of the Economic Community of West African States Mission in The Gambia at Jaji, Kaduna State on Friday.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the 197 troops began their Pre-Deployment Training on May 4 at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre in Jaji, Kaduna State.
Sinjen emphasized that the PDT aligns with the commitment of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, and the Nigerian Armed Forces to deploy high-quality peacekeepers in support of international peace and security.
He stated that the training had provided 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,” Sinjen said. “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.”
He highlighted that the troops were trained in the latest techniques and procedures for maintaining peace and stability in a complex environment, instilling values of discipline, respect for human rights, and compassion for the people they are set to protect.
“Your mission comes at a critical time, as The Gambia faces a period of uncertainty and instability,” he added, noting that the country’s political crisis has affected many innocent civilians.
“Your role is crucial in maintaining peace, protecting lives, and promoting sustainable development.”
Sinjen urged the troops to maintain high standards of professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights. He advised them to adhere strictly to the ECOWAS mandate, which “guides your mission and ensures that your actions align with the principles of peace, stability, and human rights.”
He reminded them, “Your conduct will not only reflect on yourselves but also on your country, the ECOWAS region, and the international community.”
He emphasized the importance of sensitivity and respect in their interactions, being mindful of local customs, traditions, and socio-political dynamics.
“You must remain vigilant in the face of potential security threats and avoid any actions that may be perceived as insensitive,” he said. The Nigerian Armed Forces have a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, in line with United Nations policies. “Any form of sexual exploitation and abuse will be met with severe consequences.”
Sinjen concluded by encouraging the troops to uphold the esteemed values and enviable image of Nigeria as ambassadors of the Armed Forces and the nation.
Commandant of MLAILPKC, Maj-Gen Ademola Adedoja, noted that the six-week training was intense and comprehensive, conducted in accordance with the Standard UN Core Pre-Deployment Training Modules.
The PDT aimed to equip the unit with the necessary skills and knowledge for their deployment to The Gambia.
Adedoja highlighted that the training included crosscutting issues such as Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, Conduct and Discipline, and Protection of Civilians.
“This graduation is a testament to the capacity and capability of the MLAILPKC as a United Nations accredited Centre to conduct quality training of prospective peacekeepers for deployment to multidimensional Peace Support Operations in fulfilment of her mandate,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the troops are now better informed and equipped to perform their roles in The Gambia, stating, “The Centre has within the last six weeks been able to train, retrain, and refresh the troops on requisite knowledge and expertise to succeed in a Peace Support Operation environment.”
The graduation ceremony underscored Nigeria and the Nigerian Armed Forces’ commitment to global peace and security.
