Nigerian Army has deployed 177 troops on a peacekeeping mission to Guinea-Bissau.
The Chief of Operations of the Nigerian Army, Maj-Gen. Boniface Sinjen disclosed this at the graduation of troops of Nigerian Company 3 Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau at Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) Jaji.
Gen. Sinjen said, “Guinea-Bissau is grappling with political instability and institutional crisis, which poses a significant threat to peace and sustainable development in the sub-region.”
He said the Nigerian Government, through the ECOWAS, stands united with the government and people of Guinea-Bissau, adding that the graduation reaffirms our unwavering commitment to supporting the Government of the Republic of Guinea Bissau to consolidate its authority to address the security challenges, strengthen democratic governance and foster stability in the country.
“This deployment is in line with the mission’s mandate, which has been extended several times to consolidate the relative peace and stability in the country. You, gallant men of the Nigerian Army, have been trained by this renowned Centre of Excellence to play that critical role.
“This Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) has equipped you with the necessary tactical skills and knowledge to support the government of Guinea-Bissau in stabilising the country. I therefore urge you to remain committed to upholding the principles of ECOWAS peacekeeping operations,” he said.
The chief of operations charged the troops to conduct themselves professionally following these guidelines of the mission.
“You will operate in a complex and diverse environment where various ethnic groups coexist. I implore you to maintain the highest level of professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights and the sovereignty of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau.
“As ambassadors of Nigeria, your behaviour will reflect on the nation’s image, so I urge you to uphold the highest standards of conduct and maintain the integrity of our esteemed profession.
He urged them to embody the core values of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and refrain from any actions that could compromise the mission’s objectives or undermine our nation’s reputation.
He appreciated the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, for his unwavering commitment towards enhancing the effectiveness of peacekeeping troops through realistic training, which is one of the key pillars of his command philosophy.
“His leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the readiness and capabilities of our troops, and I am deeply appreciative of his support,” Sinjen said.
Earlier, the commandant of MLAILPKC, Maj-Gen. Ademola Adedoja said the PDT began on May 19 and was designed to prepare the contingent on contemporary peacekeeping operations for a successful tour of duty in Guinea-Bissau.