The Nigerian Army has concluded the training of 174 soldiers set to participate in the ECOWAS peacekeeping mission in Guinea-Bissau, reinforcing Nigeria’s role in promoting regional stability and security.
The troops, forming Nigerian Company 4 under the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB), underwent comprehensive training at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji, Kaduna State.
At the graduation ceremony, Major General Uwem Bassey, represented by Maj.-Gen. Nansak Shagaya, praised the soldiers for their discipline and readiness. He reminded them of Nigeria’s distinguished history in international peacekeeping and encouraged them to uphold the values of professionalism, discipline, and respect for human dignity.
“Your mission is not just about security; it is about inspiring confidence, respecting local traditions, and protecting civilians,” he said.
Bassey issued a stern warning on the issue of sexual misconduct, reiterating a zero-tolerance stance aligned with international norms and quoting UN Secretary-General António Guterres: “We must demonstrate zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse.”
MLAILPKC Commandant, Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, highlighted the strategic importance of the training, which included operational drills, leadership development, and medical evaluations by the Nigerian Army Medical Corps. He emphasised the troops’ readiness to navigate the complex realities of peace operations.
“Your presence in Guinea-Bissau is part of Nigeria’s long-standing pledge to peace and security in West Africa. Your service will reflect not only on you but on the Nigerian Armed Forces and the country at large,” Adedoja told the troops.
He further disclosed that the Centre had previously trained contingents for the UN Interim Security Force in Abyei and the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia, both of which are currently deployed and representing Nigeria with distinction.
The Commandant commended Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his unwavering support and strategic leadership, which has ensured continued investment in peacekeeping training and preserved the Centre’s UN-accredited status.
As the soldiers prepare to join peace efforts in Guinea-Bissau, military leadership expressed confidence in their professionalism and their capacity to make meaningful contributions to regional peacebuilding.
