The Nigerian army has deployed another contingent of troops to the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB).

The latest contingent comprising 86 soldiers departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Nigeria's capital Abuja on Saturday

Their aircraft, provided by the air force, arrived safely in Guinea-Bissau, where they will commence operations under the ECOWAS mandate.

Before the deployment from the Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Forward Operating Base in Abuja, the Chief of Operations (Army), Major General M.L.D. Saraso, represented by the Director of Peace Support Operations, Brigadier General M.M. Idris, urged the assigned troops to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and operational excellence.

Ambassadors of Nigerian republic

He charged the personnel to serve as worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian military and the Nigerian republic. He further cautioned them to respect the laws, customs and traditions of Guinea-Bissau, and maintain zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, substance abuse, and the irresponsible use of social media.

The army said the deployment is testament to Nigeria's longstanding leadership in peace support operations and commitment to regional stability.