Nigerian Army Deploys 171 Peacekeeping Troops to Abyei Region

By Mohammed Tijjani | Published: March 25, 2025

Nigeria Strengthens UN Peacekeeping Efforts in Conflict Zone

The Nigerian Army has deployed 171 specially trained troops to the disputed Abyei region on the Sudan-South Sudan border as part of a United Nations peacekeeping mission. The deployment marks Nigeria’s continued commitment to global peacekeeping operations.

Graduation Ceremony Highlights Mission Importance

Major-General Boniface Sinjen, Chief of Operations for the Nigerian Army, announced the deployment during the graduation ceremony of the Nigerian Contingent 3 at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna.

“United Nations peacekeeping operations are not just military operations, but also missions of peace, diplomacy, and service to humanity,” Sinjen emphasized to the graduating troops who will join the United Nations Interim Security Force (UNISFA).

Nigeria’s Proud Peacekeeping Legacy

The Chief of Operations highlighted Nigeria’s distinguished history in peacekeeping, with troops having served in conflict zones across Africa including Liberia, Darfur, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Guinea-Bissau.

Major-General Ademola Adedoja, Commandant of MLAILPKC, revealed that the center has successfully trained over 100,000 peacekeepers since its establishment. “This achievement is a testament to Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to global peace and security,” Adedoja stated.

Rigorous Training for Complex Mission

The troops underwent intensive preparation beginning February 13, including:

• Medical screening by Nigerian Army Medical Corps
• Instruction on UN peacekeeping fundamentals and international laws
• Specialized training on sexual exploitation prevention
• Combat medic training for medical personnel
• MRAP vehicle operation training with German advisors

“The current security situation in Abyei is fragile and unpredictable,” Sinjen warned, noting persistent intercommunal conflicts and humanitarian crises in the region.

Zero Tolerance Policy Emphasized

The troops were reminded of the UN’s strict policies regarding conduct, particularly Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA). “Any violation would be met with severe disciplinary action,” Sinjen stressed, urging troops to maintain the highest standards of discipline and respect for human dignity.

The Commandant expressed gratitude to Chief of Army Staff Lt-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede for his support in maintaining MLAILPKC as a UN-accredited Centre of Excellence.

This deployment represents Nigeria’s latest contribution to international peace efforts, with the well-trained contingent prepared to uphold the country’s proud peacekeeping legacy in one of Africa’s most volatile regions.

Edited by Benson Iziama

Source: NAN News