DBDC INTERNATIONAL DEFENCE PUBLICATIONS & EVENTS UK LTD

                                                                © 2026 NAF

The Nigerian Army has deployed a new contingent of troops to the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB), reaffirming Nigeria’s longstanding commitment to regional peace, security and stability in West Africa. The latest rotation, designated Nigerian Company 5 (NIGCOY 5 ESSMGB), consists of 86 military personnel who departed from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja aboard a Nigerian Air Force C-130 Hercules transport aircraft before arriving safely in Guinea-Bissau to begin their peace support duties under the ECOWAS mandate.

Before their departure, the troops completed their pre-deployment preparations at the Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Forward Operating Base in Abuja. Addressing the contingent, the Chief of Operations (Army), Major General MLD Saraso, represented by the Director of Peace Support Operations, Brigadier General MM Idris, urged the personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and operational excellence throughout their deployment.

The troops were reminded that they serve not only as representatives of the Nigerian Army but also as ambassadors of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. They were instructed to faithfully implement the ECOWAS mission mandate while respecting the laws, customs and traditions of Guinea-Bissau. Commanders also reiterated the Nigerian Army’s policy of zero tolerance towards sexual exploitation and abuse, substance abuse, indiscipline and the irresponsible use of social media during overseas deployments.

Nigeria has historically been one of Africa’s leading contributors to peace support operations and has played a central role in numerous ECOWAS, African Union and United Nations missions across the continent. The deployment of NIGCOY 5 reflects the country’s continued commitment to strengthening regional security, preventing conflict and supporting post-conflict stabilisation efforts.

The ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau was established to assist the country in maintaining political stability, strengthening democratic institutions and supporting security sector reform. The multinational force contributes to creating a secure environment that enables the government to implement reforms while helping to deter instability and protect constitutional order.

Through the deployment of another well-trained contingent, the Nigerian Army continues to demonstrate its professionalism, operational readiness and dedication to collective security in West Africa. The mission also reinforces Nigeria’s strategic role as a leading contributor to regional peacekeeping efforts, further strengthening cooperation among ECOWAS member states in addressing common security challenges and promoting lasting peace across the African continent.