Nigeria Strengthens ECOWAS Peace Efforts with 86-Troop Deployment to Guinea-Bissau

The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining peace and security in West Africa by deploying a contingent of 86 personnel to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau. This deployment, which is part of the Nigerian Company 5 (NIGCOY 5 ESSMGB), underscores Nigeria's unwavering commitment to regional peacekeeping operations. The troops departed from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja aboard a Nigerian Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and arrived safely in Guinea-Bissau, where they will carry out their assignment under the ECOWAS mandate. Prior to their departure, the Chief of Operations, Major General Mayirenso Saraso, represented by the Director of Peace Support Operations, Brigadier General M.M. Idris, urged the troops to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and discipline throughout the mission. The personnel were also charged to serve as ambassadors of the Nigerian Army and the country, upholding the laws and customs of Guinea-Bissau while avoiding any form of misconduct. This deployment highlights Nigeria's strategic role in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and post-conflict stabilisation across Africa, leveraging the professionalism and resilience of its peacekeepers. The ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau aims to support security sector reforms and maintain political stability in the country, following years of political crises and repeated military interventions. Nigeria has consistently been a major contributor to ECOWAS peace operations, providing troops, logistics, and leadership to missions in various countries, including Liberia, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Guinea-Bissau. As ECOWAS continues to address growing security and political challenges in West Africa, including military coups and insurgency, Nigeria's deployment reinforces its commitment to regional peace and stability.