The Nigerian Army has successfully completed pre-deployment training for 197 troops who will be sent on a peacekeeping mission in Gambia. The troops, who belong to the Nigerian Company 8 ECOWAS Mission in the Gambia (NIGCOY 8 ECOMIG), began their training on April 3rd at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peace Keeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji, Kaduna state.
The Chief of Operations, Army, Maj.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, spoke to the troops and emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to deploying high-quality peacekeepers as part of its contributions to international peace and security, in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s policy direction.
The pre-deployment training was aimed at refreshing and polishing the troops’ knowledge and expertise in peace support operations and equipping them with the skills they need to function effectively in the Gambia. The training covered tactical skills as well as contemporary cross-cutting issues such as sexual exploitation and abuse, conflict-related sexual violence, and the protection of civilians.
The Deputy Commandant of the MLAILPKC, Brig-Gen Sunday Makolo, commended the officers, instructors, facilitators, and staff for their commitment to the training and urged the troops to represent Nigeria well by delivering excellent services and exemplary leadership.
Makolo reminded the troops that they are ambassadors of Nigeria and must conduct themselves professionally at all times to promote the image of the Armed Forces and Nigeria as a whole.
He also emphasized the importance of respecting the host nation’s cultural and religious sensitivities and adhering to the Rules of Engagement of the Mission. Finally, he congratulated the troops for successfully completing the pre-deployment training and confirmed that they are now certified suitable for deployment to the Gambia.
