The Nigerian Army has announced the deployment of 177 personnel for a peacekeeping mission in Guinea-Bissau.
Maj.-Gen. Boniface Sinjen, the Chief of Operations for the Nigerian Army, disclosed this information during the graduation ceremony of troops from the Nigerian Company 3 ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau.
Maj.-Gen. Sinjen emphasized the importance of the mission and encouraged the troops to represent Nigeria honorably, maintaining professionalism and discipline throughout their deployment.
He highlighted the critical role these peacekeepers will play in stabilizing and supporting Guinea-Bissau as part of the ECOWAS initiative.
The graduation ceremony took place at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji.
Maj.-Gen. Boniface Sinjen emphasized the significance of the mission, noting that Guinea-Bissau is currently experiencing political instability and an institutional crisis, which poses a substantial threat to peace and sustainable development in the sub-region.
He urged the troops to uphold Nigeria’s reputation by maintaining high standards of professionalism, discipline, and dedication during their deployment.
Maj.-Gen. Boniface Sinjen assured that the Nigerian Government, in collaboration with ECOWAS, is united with the Government and people of Guinea-Bissau.
He highlighted that the graduation ceremony reaffirms their commitment to supporting the Guinea-Bissau government in consolidating authority, addressing security challenges, strengthening democratic governance, and fostering stability in the country.
“This deployment is in line with the mandate of the mission, 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 stabilizing the country. I therefore urge you to remain committed to upholding the principles of ECOWAS peacekeeping operations,” Sinjen said.
He charged the troops to conduct themselves professionally according to mission guidelines, respecting human rights and the sovereignty of Guinea-Bissau. Sinjen emphasized the importance of maintaining the highest standards of conduct, noting that their behavior would reflect on Nigeria’s image.
“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.
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 said.
Sinjen urged the troops to embrace the fundamental principles of the Nigerian Armed Forces and avoid any behavior that could jeopardize the mission or tarnish the country’s reputation.
He stressed a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse, with severe penalties for offenders, and highlighted the seriousness of drug trafficking and abuse, which would not be tolerated.
He commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for his efforts to enhance the capabilities of peacekeeping forces through practical training. Sinjen appreciated Lagbaja’s leadership and vision, which have been instrumental in shaping the readiness and capabilities of the troops.
In his earlier remarks, Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, Commandant of MLAILPKC, stated that the PDT, which began on May 19, was designed to prepare the troops for modern peacekeeping missions and ensure a successful deployment to Guinea-Bissau. He noted that the training included discussions on modern peacekeeping missions, specific security threats in Guinea-Bissau, the mission’s history, current status, and specific objectives.
“Additionally, the troops were exposed to mentally and physically engaging exercises to equip them with the necessary knowledge and tactical skills required in peacekeeping operations in line with the United Nations Core PDT modules.
As you stand ready to embark on this critical mission, I urge you to carry the spirit of excellence with you. Your contribution to the ECOWAS Stabilization 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,” Adedoja said.