No fewer than 171 troops, comprising 18 officers and 153 soldiers, have graduated from the pre-deployment training of the Nigerian Contingent 3 United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA).
The pre-deployment training took place in the United Nations-accredited Centre of Excellence Martin Luther International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) Jaji, which aligns with the United Nations’ guiding principles in peacekeeping operations.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, which was held at the centre, the guest of honour, the chief of operations of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Boniface Sinjen recalled that Nigeria has a proud and distinguished history in peacekeeping operations.
He emphasised that Nigerian troops have played key roles in restoring peace and stability in conflict zones across Africa and the world for decades. From Lebanon to Liberia, Sierra Leone to Sudan, adding that Nigerian peacekeepers have stood firm in defence of the oppressed, the vulnerable and those caught in the crossfire of war.
“Nigerian contingents have repeatedly earned global citations and medals for leadership, bravery and professional competence. Today, Nigeria remains a pillar of international peace efforts, with our troops performing exceptionally well in the Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Abyei.
“The current security situation in Abyei remains fragile and unpredictable. Recent reports have revealed persistent intercommunal conflicts, armed skirmishes and humanitarian crises in the Abyei Area. Additionally, the broader political instability in Sudan and South Sudan have made the mission environment complex and dynamic.”
He reminded the troops that MLAILPKC has engaged them in rigorous training aimed at equipping them with the tactical skills, operational knowledge, and humanitarian awareness required to carry out their mandated tasks in the mission area.
However, he stressed that, beyond the drills and exercises, the true essence of peacekeeping lies in their ability to conduct themselves with discipline, impartiality, and respect for human dignity.
“The contributions of the troops you are going to relieve have earned global recognition, and you must uphold this legacy of professionalism, dedication and honour. The people of Abyei would see you not just as soldiers but as protectors and symbols of hope. Your presence must inspire confidence, not fear, trust, not suspicion.
“While the training has certified you ready for induction into the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei, I must stress the importance of maintaining the highest standards of conduct. The Nigerian Army has built a reputation for professionalism, and it is your duty to uphold this wherever you serve. One area that requires particular attention is the issue of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA).
“The United Nations has a zero-tolerance policy for SEA, and the NA will not condone any act that brings dishonour to the mission or our dear country. The words of the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, serve as a strong reminder of this obligation.
He said: “Sexual exploitation and abuse have no place in our world.
“They violate everything the United Nations stands for. We must do more to ensure that victims are at the centre of our efforts and that there is accountability and justice.” Let me be clear on this: under no circumstances should you engage in any form of sexual exploitation or any act capable of undermining the credibility of the mission. Any violation of these principles will be met with severe disciplinary action,” he stated.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commandant MLAILPKC Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja said the graduating troops ready for pre-deployment successfully completed an intensive PDT designed to prepare them for the realities of peacekeeping in one of the most challenging operational environments in Africa.
He noted that since the establishment of MLAILPKC, the Centre has graduated over 100,000 peacekeepers who have distinguished themselves 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.”
He said the graduating troops assembled here on February 13, 2025, for a medical screening conducted by a team from the Nigerian Army Medical Corps. This medical evaluation was conducted in accordance with UN requirements and training standards to assess the troops’ health status and physical and mental fitness.
He said the training was strictly in line with the UN Core Pre-Deployment Training Materials (CPTM) and other certified manuals for PDT. “The training was conducted in phases, beginning with instructional sessions where the contingent was exposed to the fundamental principles of UN peacekeeping operations, operationalisation and implementation of Security Council mandates, and international laws relevant to peacekeeping operations.
“Additionally, the curriculum was modified to include mission-specific training delivered by experts. These specialised sessions covered Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices, the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, intelligence briefings on Abyei and financial management for peacekeepers.
“The second phase of the training was the tactical phase, which allowed the contingent to experience the operational realities they would face in the mission area. This phase covered the occupation and security of Base Camp, a key task of the contingent as the Base Camp Defence Company for the Force Headquarters at Camp PARADISE.
“Other tactical exercises included convoy drills, VIP protection, vehicle search procedures, the use of the Global Positioning System (GPS), crowd control and cordon and search operations (some of which the contingent will demonstrate for your viewing pleasure shortly),” he stated.
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