One hundred and ninety seven troops of the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, Kaduna, have been sent to the Republic of Gambia on a peacekeeping mission.
The Commandant, Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, Kaduna, Major General Ademola Adedoja, while deploying the troops, said that the soldiers were part of Nigeria’s contribution to entrenching peace in the country.
General Adedoja announced this at the graduation of the troops from Pre-deployment Training at the Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Centre (NAPKC), Jaji in Kaduna state, adding that the troops have undergone intense training in line with the Standard UN Core Pre-Deployment Training Modules.
The six weeks Pre-deployment Training, according to him, commenced on May 24. He said it is aimed at equipping the earmarked unit with the requisite skills and knowledge to function effectively and efficiently in their deployment to the Gambia.
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He said as part of their trainings, the troops were taken through crosscutting issues like Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, Conflict Related Sexual Violence, Conduct and Discipline as well as Protection of Civilians amongst others, expressing optimism that without gainsaying, they have been adequately prepared for the mission at hand.
He cautioned the officers to avoid any ugly incident like trafficking of illicit substances and sexual exploitation and abuse that could tarnish the image of the Country and Nigerian Armed Forces, while explaining that the Economic Community of West African States, (ECOWAS) has zero tolerance for such act, even as he noted that the Nigerian Government will not tolerate any contravention of these rules and regulations.
In his remarks, the Chief of Operations Nigerian Army, Major General Boniface Sinjen, congratulated the troops on their graduation, saying the mission came at a critical time, as the Gambia faces uncertainty and instability.
“Your mission comes at a critical time, as The Gambia faces a period of uncertainty and instability. The country’s political crisis has affected the lives of many innocent civilians and your presence will sustain the existing peace and stability to the region. Your role is crucial in maintaining peace, protecting lives and promoting sustainable development. As you embark on this mission, I charge you to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights.”
“Adhere strictly to the ECOWAS’ mandate, which guides your mission and ensure that your actions align with the principles of peace, stability and human rights. Remember that your conduct will not only reflect on yourselves but also on your country, the ECOWAS region and the international community,” he warned.
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