The Force Commander, ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), Colonel Aliyu Tine, has paid his maiden operational visit to the Nigerian Contingent Base Camp at Yundum Barracks following the assumption of command by Nigerian Company (NIGCOY) 11 on 29 June 2026.
A statement signed by Captain Kela Babale, Public Information Officer ,Nigerian Contingent, ECOMIG said the Force Commander was received on arrival by the Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Yahya Mohammed Abdullahi, alongside officers and soldiers of the contingent. The visit was aimed at officially welcoming the newly deployed Nigerian contingent to the mission area, familiarising himself with the contingent’s operational activities, administrative arrangements, welfare of personnel, and obtaining first hand information on the challenges and projections of the unit. The visit also provided an opportunity for the Force Commander to interact with personnel, assess the condition of facilities within the camp, and issue directives aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and mission readiness.
Addressing the troops, Colonel Tine commended the officers and soldiers for their exemplary discipline, professionalism, and commitment since their induction into the mission. He urged all personnel to remain united, disciplined, and committed to the successful execution of the ECOMIG mandate, stressing that mutual trust, teamwork, and cohesion remain indispensable to operational success.
The Force Commander further noted that Nigerian troops have continued to distinguish themselves in ECOWAS and United Nations peace support operations through their exceptional professionalism and outstanding performance. He expressed confidence in the ability of the Nigerian Contingent to uphold this enviable tradition throughout its deployment in The Gambia.
Colonel Tine reminded the troops that they serve not only as peacekeepers but also as ambassadors of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He therefore charged them to uphold the highest standards of conduct and professionalism, emphasizing that every action and decision taken by personnel reflects the image and reputation of the Nigerian Armed Forces. He encouraged the troops to wear the Nigerian flag on their shoulders with pride and honour by remaining disciplined, respectful of the laws and customs of the host nation, and dedicated to the mission. He concluded by wishing all personnel a safe, successful, and rewarding tour of duty.
The Force Commander also held a separate interaction with officers of the contingent, during which he charged them to give their unwavering support and loyalty to the Contingent Commander in order to sustain effective leadership, unity of purpose, and operational efficiency. He reminded the officers that leadership by example is fundamental, as their conduct and professionalism directly influence the soldiers under their command.
Earlier, Lieutenant Colonel Yahya Mohammed Abdullahi briefed the Force Commander on the contingent’s operational activities, administrative arrangements, welfare issues, achievements, challenges, and future projections since assuming command of NIGCOY 11. He reaffirmed the contingent’s commitment to the successful accomplishment of the ECOMIG mandate and expressed appreciation for the Force Commander’s visit and continued support.
Highlights of the visit included an interactive session with officers and soldiers, a guided tour of key facilities within the camp, the signing of the visitors’ book, the presentation of a commemorative souvenir to the Force Commander, and groupphotographs.
