Nigerian Soldiers Deployed to Gambia Amid Domestic Security Challenges

The Nigerian Armed Forces have announced the deployment of 197 soldiers to the Gambia to support peacekeeping efforts, despite ongoing security challenges within Nigeria itself.

Major General Boniface Sinjen, Chief of Operations for the Nigerian Army, disclosed the deployment during the graduation ceremony of Nigerian Company 9’s Economic Community of West African States Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG) at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji, Kaduna State.

The soldiers underwent rigorous Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) starting from May 4 at MLAILPKC. According to Sinjen, the training equipped them with essential tactical skills and cultural sensitivity necessary for their mission under the ECOMIG mandate. He emphasized the critical timing of their deployment amidst the Gambia’s political uncertainty and highlighted their role in preserving peace, protecting civilians, and fostering stability.

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Addressing the troops, Sinjen underscored the importance of professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights in their conduct, urging strict adherence to the ECOWAS mandate guiding their mission. He emphasized the zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation and abuse, stressing the soldiers’ responsibility to uphold Nigeria’s esteemed reputation.

Commandant Maj-Gen. Ademola Adedoja praised MLAILPKC’s comprehensive training program, which covered vital topics such as conflict-related sexual violence, protection of civilians, and conduct and discipline. He expressed confidence in the soldiers’ readiness for their duties in the Gambia, affirming Nigeria’s commitment to global peace and security through effective peacekeeping operations.

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The deployment of Nigerian soldiers to the Gambia reflects the country’s ongoing support for international peace initiatives, even amid internal security challenges that include escalating rates of kidnapping, terrorism, and banditry.

The graduation ceremony concluded with a call for the soldiers to exemplify Nigeria’s values abroad, ensuring their actions reflect positively on the nation and contribute to regional stability in West Africa.