197 Nigerian Troops Deployed to ECOWAS Peace Mission in The Gambia

The Nigerian Armed Forces on Friday deployed 197 troops to The Gambia as part of the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), following their completion of intensive pre-deployment training at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji, Kaduna State.

At the graduation ceremony, the Chief of Operations (Army), Maj.-Gen. Uwem Bassey—represented by Maj.-Gen. Ishaya Maina, Deputy Chief of Operations (Force Generation)—charged the troops to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, and integrity during the mission.

Bassey noted that Nigeria has a proud legacy in peacekeeping, with its personnel recognized globally for bravery and leadership in missions across Africa and beyond, including Lebanon, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Sudan.

“You are not only representatives of Nigeria but ambassadors of peace for the entire West Africa. You are going not as conquerors, but as guardians of peace,” he said.

He emphasized zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, warning that violations would be met with strict disciplinary action. He urged the troops to respect local laws, customs, and the dignity of the Gambian people.

Speaking earlier, the Commandant of MLAILPKC, Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, said the training followed the United Nations Core Pre-Deployment Training Materials and was tailored to meet mission-specific needs, including counter-IED techniques, financial management for peacekeepers, convoy operations, and VIP protection.

Adedoja underscored the importance of conduct and discipline, reminding the soldiers that their behavior would reflect not only on themselves but on the entire Nigerian Armed Forces.

“Any act of misconduct, human rights violations, or sexual exploitation and abuse will not be tolerated,” he warned.

He expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his leadership, as well as to all training partners and facilitators who contributed to the success of the program.

The deployment underscores Nigeria’s continued commitment to regional peace and security through ECOWAS-led initiatives.