The contingent underwent intensive training at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC), located at the Jaji Military Cantonment in Kaduna.
Speaking during the pre-deployment ceremony, the Nigerian Army Chief of Operations, Major General Uwem Bassey, stated that the troops had received thorough training to equip them with the skills necessary for their international peacekeeping duties.
Upholding peace, discipline, and human rights
Major General Bassey highlighted Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to peacekeeping operations, noting that Nigerian troops have consistently earned global acclaim for their “leadership, bravery, and professional competence.”
He urged the soldiers to maintain discipline, impartiality, and uphold the dignity of the local population in The Gambia. In particular, he emphasised the need to prevent any form of sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), warning that “any violations will result in strict disciplinary action.”
“You are not only representatives of Nigeria but also ambassadors of peace for the entire West Africa,” he declared. “Sexual exploitation and abuse have no place in our world. They violate everything that the United Nations stands for.”
Major General Bassey further reminded the troops that they are entering The Gambia not as aggressors but as peacekeepers: “You carry the Green-White-Green flag into a land seeking stability, order, and hope. You are going, not as conquerors, but as guardians of peace – protecting lives, building trust, and restoring dignity where it has been lost.”
He recounted Nigeria’s prominent role in previous peacekeeping missions, from Lebanon to Sudan, noting that Nigerian forces have “stood firm in defence of the oppressed and earned international recognition.”
Currently, Nigeria maintains peacekeeping forces in The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Abyei in South Sudan. Though The Gambia’s security situation is relatively stable, Bassey stressed the need for vigilance and professionalism in addressing ongoing challenges to ensure the safety and well-being of Gambian citizens.
Pre-deployment training concludes
Also speaking at the event, the Commandant of the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, Major General Ademola Adedoja, confirmed the successful completion of the Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) for the Nigerian Contingent 10 assigned to ECOMIG.
He noted that earlier this year, the centre also trained personnel for the United Nations Interim Security Force 3 in Abyei, further reinforcing Nigeria’s critical role in promoting peace and security across Africa.
