KADUNA, July 22 (AGCNewsNet) – The Nigerian Army has completed the training of 174 troops for deployment to Guinea Bissau under the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission (ESSMGB), reaffirming the country’s long-standing commitment to regional peacekeeping operations.

The troops, part of Nigerian Company 4, were trained at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji, Kaduna State. Their graduation marks a key milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to support stability in West Africa.

Speaking at the pre-deployment graduation, Chief of Operations Army, Maj.-Gen. Uwem Bassey (represented by Maj.-Gen. Nansak Shagaya), urged the troops to embody values of courage, integrity, and professionalism. He stressed the importance of discipline, impartiality, and human dignity in mission areas, warning of strict consequences for sexual exploitation or abuse.

“The Nigerian Army has earned global recognition in various conflict zones including Lebanon, The Gambia, Abyei, and Guinea Bissau. I urge you to uphold this legacy,” said Bassey.

MLAILPKC Commandant, Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, praised the graduating troops for their dedication during the five-week intensive training program. He said the Centre has trained over 100,000 peacekeepers to date, many of whom have served with distinction in AU, UN, and ECOWAS missions.

Adedoja emphasized that the deployment reflects Nigeria’s unwavering role in global peace and security. He also thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his support in sustaining MLAILPKC’s UN-accredited status as a Centre of Excellence.

“As you depart, remember that your professionalism and respect for local cultures will not only reflect your character but also the honor of the Nigerian Army and the nation,” Adedoja stated.

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