Troops of the Nigerian Contingent 4 assigned to the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) have successfully concluded a nine-week pre-deployment training programme at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC), Jaji, Kaduna State.
The graduation ceremony was held on Tuesday, April 8, 2026, at the centre’s parade ground, marking the readiness of the contingent for deployment to the volatile Abyei region.
The contingent, made up of 18 officers and 168 soldiers, underwent intensive mission-focused training designed to prepare them for the complex operational environment in Abyei. The programme covered core peacekeeping principles, rules of engagement, mission-specific tactical drills, and other specialised exercises aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness under the United Nations mandate.
Representing the Chief of Operations (Army), Major General Mayirenso Lander Saraso, the Director of Force Generation, Brigadier General Muhammed Kana, congratulated the troops on the successful completion of the course and charged them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and conduct.
He reminded the personnel of Nigeria’s longstanding and respected record in global peacekeeping operations, urging them to preserve the nation’s reputation as dependable ambassadors of peace.
Brigadier General Kana also reiterated the United Nations’ zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), stressing the importance of strict compliance with international standards and ethical conduct throughout the mission.
“You are charged to uphold the values of the Nigerian Army, work as a team, and serve as true ambassadors of peace,” he stated.
Earlier, the Commandant of MLAILPKC, Major General Dagana Allu, described the graduation as another significant milestone in Nigeria’s enduring contribution to international peace and security.
He disclosed that the centre has trained more than 100,000 peacekeepers since its establishment, many of whom have gone on to serve with distinction in United Nations and regional peace support missions.
According to him, the contingent also underwent medical screening and comprehensive pre-deployment exercises in line with UN standards to ensure full operational readiness before deployment.
Major General Allu expressed confidence in the troops’ ability to sustain Nigeria’s legacy of professionalism, discipline, and excellence in peacekeeping operations.
In a vote of thanks, Brigadier General Gabriel Esho appreciated Army Headquarters for its support, commended the leadership of the commandant, and praised the commitment of the instructors and training team for ensuring the successful completion of the programme.
The troops are now set for deployment to Abyei, where they will represent Nigeria in supporting peace and security efforts under the UN mandate.
UNISFA, established in 2011, is a United Nations peacekeeping mission tasked with stabilising the disputed oil-rich border region of Abyei between Sudan and South Sudan.
