President Tinubu Deploys Nigerian Army to The Gambia to Bolster Peace and Combat Banditry

In a decisive move to strengthen regional peace and security, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has authorized the deployment of Nigerian Army personnel to The Gambia. This strategic deployment aims to support ongoing efforts to combat banditry and restore lasting peace and stability within the West African nation.

The deployment, which follows rigorous pre-deployment training for the contingent, underscores Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to its regional responsibilities and the collective security of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region. These highly trained troops will integrate into the existing ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG) and are equipped with the necessary tactical skills and knowledge for peace support operations in a complex environment.

Speaking on the deployment, a spokesperson for the Nigerian Presidency stated, “President Tinubu’s decision reflects Nigeria’s dedication to fostering a secure and stable West Africa. We believe that a peaceful Gambia is essential for the prosperity and security of the entire sub-region. Our troops are deployed with a clear mandate to assist in eradicating the menace of banditry, protecting civilian lives, and promoting an environment conducive to sustainable development.”

The Nigerian contingent has undergone extensive training at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC), covering critical areas such as counter-improvised explosive devices, protection of civilians, human rights, and cultural sensitivity. They are poised to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and respect for human dignity throughout their mission.

This deployment is a testament to Nigeria’s long-standing history of contributing to international peacekeeping efforts, with Nigerian peacekeepers consistently earning global recognition for their leadership, bravery, and professional competence in various conflict zones across Africa and beyond.

The Federal Government of Nigeria remains confident that the deployed troops will effectively contribute to the ECOMIG mandate, working collaboratively with Gambian security forces and other regional partners to ensure the safety and well-being of the Gambian people and ultimately restore enduring peace to the nation.