As the sun rose over the Jaji Military Cantonment in Kaduna, a group of determined soldiers stood ready for a new chapter in their careers. They had undergone rigorous training at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC), preparing not just for the duties ahead but for the tremendous responsibility of peacekeeping in The Gambia.
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During a pre-deployment ceremony, Major General Uwem Bassey, the Nigerian Army Chief of Operations, took a moment to instill confidence in the troops. He emphasized that the training provided was not just a series of drills but a comprehensive program designed to equip them with essential skills for their international peacekeeping mission. His words resonated deeply among the soldiers, as they understood the weight of their roles far beyond warfare.
Upholding Peace, Discipline, and Human Rights
In his address, Major General Bassey articulated Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to global peacekeeping. He noted, with a sense of pride, that Nigerian troops have continually garnered international recognition for their “leadership, bravery, and professional competence.” This acknowledgment serves not only as motivation but as a reminder that their actions will reflect on their nation, potentially influencing future peacekeeping endeavors.
However, with such honor comes an immense responsibility. The Major General urged the troops to maintain discipline and uphold the dignity of the local Gambian population. He targeted a particularly sensitive issue—sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA)—stating unequivocally that “any violations will result in strict disciplinary action.” This grave reminder brought a serious tone to an otherwise hopeful occasion, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct in peacekeeping missions.
“You are not only representatives of Nigeria but also ambassadors of peace for the entirety of West Africa,” he declared. “Sexual exploitation and abuse have no place in our world. They violate everything that the United Nations stands for.” As he spoke, one could almost imagine these words permeating the future landscape of their mission, echoing through the hearts and minds of each soldier.
Major General Bassey reminded the troops of the critical distinction they must embody: they are entering The Gambia not as aggressors but as peacekeepers. He stated emphatically, “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.” Such evocative sentiments are crucial for troops stepping into complex environments—a poignant reminder that even small actions can have profound impacts.
Reflecting on past engagements, Major General Bassey recounted Nigeria’s legacy in peacekeeping missions from Lebanon to Sudan. These narratives serve not only to inspire but to instill a sense of duty. He remarked that Nigerian forces have “stood firm in defense of the oppressed and earned international recognition.” The weight of history combined with the promise of the future resonated strongly in the gathering.
Currently, Nigeria’s peacekeeping forces are active in various hotspots, including The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Abyei in South Sudan. Although The Gambia’s security situation may appear relatively stable, Bassey underscored the need for constant vigilance and professionalism. He urged the troops to be proactive in addressing ongoing challenges, reinforcing the idea that peace is not simply the absence of conflict, but a continual process demanding dedication and care.
Conclusion of Pre-Deployment Training
Another significant voice at the event was that of Major General Ademola Adedoja, the Commandant of the MLAILPKC. He affirmed the successful completion of Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) for the Nigerian Contingent 10 assigned to the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG). The training’s success exemplifies Nigeria’s strategic commitment to promoting peace in Africa, reflecting the careful planning and execution that define military readiness.
Earlier this year, Major General Adedoja noted, the center also prepared personnel for the United Nations Interim Security Force in Abyei. Such initiatives emphasize Nigeria’s crucial role in fostering stability across the continent. The challenges of peacekeeping are daunting, but Nigeria is clearly stepping up, ready to face these trials with both honor and humility.
As these soldiers set forth into The Gambia, they embark on a journey filled with aspirations for a peaceful outcome, both for themselves and for the community they aim to support. Their work may carry unpredictable challenges, but it also offers the chance to forge genuine connections and be a beacon of hope in times of uncertainty.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
