Nigerian Army Prepares Troops for Peacekeeping Mission Amidst Domestic Insecurity Concerns

The Nigerian Army has scheduled medical screening and pre-deployment training for 319 troops who will be part of a peacekeeping mission in Guinea Bissau.

The training is set to commence on May 15, 2024, at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peace Keeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji, Kaduna state. Criticism has arisen regarding the deployment of troops to other countries, as it is seen as neglecting the battle against insecurity at home.

Under the current service chiefs, insecurity has escalated, leading to the country being ranked as the eighth-worst nation in terms of susceptibility to terrorism. Insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping have rendered certain parts of the country uninhabitable. Additionally, some Nigerian soldiers have faced accusations of harassing, assaulting, and intimidating journalists, human rights activists, residents, and government critics.

In March, Nigerian Army troops invaded the Igbomotoru community in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, reportedly burning houses and causing the alleged deaths of about 11 people following the killing of some army personnel in the Okuama community in Delta State. The troop will be under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel U.J. Atelhe.