The Nigerian Army has announced the deployment of 177 personnel to Guinea-Bissau for a peacekeeping mission. This deployment, aimed at addressing political instability and institutional crises in Guinea-Bissau, is part of the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission.
The announcement was made by Major General Boniface Sinjen, the Chief of Operations for the Nigerian Army, during a graduation ceremony at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji.
Sinjen highlighted the significance of this mission, stating, “Guinea-Bissau is grappling with political instability and institutional crises, which pose a significant threat to peace and sustainable development in the sub-region.”
Sinjen emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to supporting Guinea-Bissau through ECOWAS.
“The Nigerian government, through ECOWAS, stands united with the government and people of Guinea-Bissau,” he said.
“The graduation of the troops reaffirmed this commitment, aiming to help the Guinea-Bissau government address security challenges, strengthen democratic governance, and foster stability,” he said.
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The deployment aligns with the mission’s mandate, which has been extended several times to maintain peace and stability in Guinea-Bissau.
Sinjen praised the training the troops received at MLAILPKC, stating, “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.”
Sinjen urged the troops to conduct themselves professionally, maintaining the highest standards of conduct and discipline.
“You will be operating 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,” he noted.
He emphasized the importance of upholding the principles of ECOWAS peacekeeping operations and avoiding any actions that could compromise the mission.
Sinjen also warned against misconduct, “particularly sexual exploitation, abuse, drug trafficking, and abuse, highlighting the Nigerian Army’s zero-tolerance policy for such offenses.”
Sinjen expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for his dedication to enhancing the effectiveness of peacekeeping troops through realistic training.
“His leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the readiness and capabilities of our troops, and I am deeply appreciative of his support,” he said.
Earlier, Major General Ademola Adedoja, Commandant of MLAILPKC, described the Pre-Deployment Training that began on May 19.
He explained that “the training was designed to prepare the contingent for contemporary peacekeeping operations in Guinea-Bissau. The troops received lectures on peacekeeping operations and the specific security challenges in Guinea-Bissau. They also participated in mentally and physically engaging exercises to equip them with the necessary skills.”
Adedoja highlighted the importance of the mission, urging the troops to carry the spirit of excellence with them.
“Your contribution to the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission will be instrumental in shaping the future of Guinea-Bissau, thus promoting peace, stability, and development in West Africa. You are not just representing the Armed Forces of Nigeria but also serving as ambassadors of our great nation,” he said.