Nigeria Deploys Fresh Troops to ECOWAS Peace Mission in Guinea-Bissau

The Nigerian Army has deployed a fresh contingent of troops to the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB), reinforcing Nigeria's commitment to promoting peace, security and stability across the West African sub-region.

The newly deployed Nigerian Company 5 (NIGCOY 5 ESSMGB), comprising 86 personnel, departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja aboard a Nigerian Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and arrived safely in Guinea-Bissau, where they will commence peace support operations under the mandate of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Addressing the troops before their departure from the Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Forward Operating Base in Abuja, the Chief of Operations (Army), Major General MLD Saraso, represented by the Director of Peace Support Operations, Brigadier General MM Idris, urged the personnel to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and operational excellence throughout the mission.

He charged the contingent to serve as worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian Army, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the Federal Republic of Nigeria by faithfully executing their mandate while respecting the laws, customs and traditions of the host nation.

The troops were also reminded to uphold the military's policy of zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, substance abuse, indiscipline and the irresponsible use of social media during the deployment.

The Army said the latest deployment reflects Nigeria's unwavering commitment to regional peacekeeping efforts and further strengthens its leadership role in promoting collective security in West Africa.

According to the Army, Nigeria has continued to play a leading role in peace support operations under the ECOWAS, African Union and United Nations frameworks, earning international recognition for the professionalism, resilience and dedication of its personnel.

The deployment, it added, underscores the Nigerian Army's enduring reputation as one of Africa's foremost contributors to peacekeeping missions, while reinforcing Nigeria's strategic role in conflict prevention, peacebuilding and post-conflict stabilisation across the continent.

Military authorities expressed confidence that the contingent would sustain the country's tradition of excellence and contribute meaningfully to the restoration and preservation of peace in Guinea-Bissau.