The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully airlifted the first batch of Nigerian troops deploying under NIGCOY 5 ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB), reaffirming its vital role in providing strategic air mobility for the Armed Forces of Nigeria and supporting the nation’s commitment to regional peace and security.
The contingent, comprising 86 personnel (12 officers and 74 soldiers), departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, aboard a NAF C-130 aircraft en route to Guinea-Bissau, while the remaining personnel will be deployed in a subsequent airlift.
Prior to departure, the troops were formally seen off at the Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Force Operations Base, Abuja, where they were encouraged to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and integrity as worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian Army, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the Federal Republic of Nigeria throughout the mission.
The deployment underscores the seamless synergy among the Services of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and highlights the Nigerian Air Force’s enduring strategic airlift capability in support of national and multinational operations.
It also reflects Nigeria’s longstanding leadership in ECOWAS peace support efforts and its unwavering commitment to promoting regional stability, fostering international cooperation, and projecting the professionalism, credibility and positive image of the nation on the global stage.