Gambiaj.com – (KADUNA, Nigeria) – The Armed Forces of Nigeria have announced the deployment of 197 personnel for the ECOWAS peacekeeping mission in The Gambia. The Chief of Operations of the Nigerian Army, Major General Boniface Sinjen, made the announcement on Friday during the graduation ceremony of the troops at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre in Jaji, Kaduna State.

The 197 troops, part of the Nigerian Company 9 Economic Community of West African States Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), began their Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) on May 4, 2024. According to Sinjen, this training aligns with the commitment of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to deploy well-trained peacekeepers in support of international peace and security.

“The training has equipped you with the necessary tactical skills and knowledge required for peace support operations,” Sinjen stated. “It has prepared you for the protection of civilians and the accomplishment of assigned tasks under the ECOMIG mandate.”

During his address, Sinjen emphasized the importance of teamwork, leadership, cultural sensitivity, and respect for human rights. He highlighted the critical timing of this mission as The Gambia faces a period of political uncertainty and instability. The country’s political crisis has affected many innocent civilians, making the presence of peacekeepers crucial in maintaining peace and promoting sustainable development in the region.

Sinjen urged the troops to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights, advising them to adhere strictly to the ECOWAS mandate, which ensures their actions align with principles of peace, stability, and human rights. He reminded them that their conduct would reflect not only on themselves but also on Nigeria, the ECOWAS region, and the international community.

“As peacekeepers in a sovereign nation, you must adhere strictly to the UN principles and guidelines for peacekeeping operations,” Sinjen added. “Respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of The Gambia and avoid any actions that may be perceived as interference in the country’s internal affairs.”

Sinjen also reiterated the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, in line with United Nations’ policies. He warned that any form of sexual exploitation and abuse would be met with severe consequences, urging the troops to uphold the esteemed values and enviable image of Nigeria.

The Commandant of MLAILPKC, Major General Ademola Adedoja, highlighted the intense and comprehensive nature of the six-week training. Conducted in line with the Standard UN Core Pre-Deployment Training Modules, the training aimed to equip the troops with the requisite skills and knowledge to function effectively in The Gambia.

Adedoja noted that the training covered crucial areas 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,” he said.

The deployment and training underscore Nigeria’s commitment to global peace and security, as the country continues to play a pivotal role in regional stability through its contributions to peacekeeping missions.