THE Nigerian Army has deployed 177 personnel on a peacekeeping mission in Guinea-Bissau to help restore peace and stability in the West African country.
The Chief of Army Operations, Major General Boniface Sinjen, disclosed on Wednesday during the graduation ceremony of the troops of the Nigerian company 3 ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission at General Martin- Luther Agwai peacekeeping Centre, Jaji in Kaduna State.
Addressing the troops ahead of their departure to Guinea-Bissau, General Sinjen, explained that the West African country is grappling with political instability and institutional crises, which have consequently posed a significant threat to peace and sustainable development in the sub-region.
He said that the deployment of a contingent of military forces to Guinea-Bissau by the Nigerian government through the ECOWAS reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the government of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau to consolidate its authority, address the security challenges and strengthen democratic governance, as well as foster 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,” Sinjen said.
“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.
“The Chief of Army Operations cautioned the troops to conduct themselves professionally in accordance with mission guidelines, as well to respect the sovereignty and cultural sensitivity of the people of Guinea-Bissau.
“I therefore urge you to remain committed to upholding the principles of ECOWAS peacekeeping operations. You will be operating in a complex and diverse environment where various ethnic groups coexist.”
