Nigerian Army deploys 171 troops to Sudan for peacekeeping

The Nigerian Army on Tuesday announced the deployment of 171 troops to Abyei, in the border between South Sudan and Sudan for Peacekeeping mission.

The Chief of Operations, Nigerian Army, Maj.- Gen. Boniface Sinjen, announced this at the graduation ceremony of Troops of Nigerian Contingent 3 United Nations Interim Security For Abyei at Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC), Jaji Military Cantonment Kaduna.

Sinjen addressed the graduating troops of Nigerian Contingent 3, set to be deployed to Abyei as part of the United Nations Interim Security Force (UNISFA). He emphasised the significance of the mission, highlighting that United Nations peacekeeping operations are not just military operations, but also missions of peace, diplomacy, and service to humanity.

He noted that Nigeria has a proud history in peacekeeping operations, with its troops playing key roles in restoring peace in conflict zones across Africa and the world.

According to him, the current security situation in Abyei is fragile and unpredictable, with persistent intercommunal conflicts, armed skirmishes, and humanitarian crises.

He also emphasised the importance of maintaining the highest standards of conduct, particularly regarding Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA).

Earlier, the Commandant MLAILPKC, Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja said: “Today, we celebrate another milestone as we graduate another batch of well-trained troops, ready to contribute to international peace and security.”

“Since the establishment of MLAILPKC, the centre has successfully graduated over 100,000 peacekeepers who have successfully served with distinction in various UN and regional peacekeeping missions in the Republic of Liberia, Darfur, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Abyei, amongst others.

“This achievement is a testament to Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to global peace and security. I have no doubt that the contingent before us today will uphold this proud legacy and contribute meaningfully to the UNISFA mission.”