The Nigerian Army on Tuesday said it has trained and injected 52,000 soldiers into the peacekeeping mission and soldiers under peacekeeping should fight back when they are under any form of attack.
The Commandant, Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Centre (NAPKC), Jaji, Maj. Gen. Salihu Uba disclosed this during the inauguration ceremony of 242 Battalion pre-deployment training, held in Kaduna.
Uba said the four-week training would prepare about 700 soldiers for deployment on peacekeeping mission to Liberia.
“Within the four weeks that you will be here, you will be exposed to mission specific training, you will learn advanced rifle marksmanship, area security, field duties, convoy and VIP protection.
“Your battalion will also be exposed to employment of Quick Response Force, Crowd Dispersal and Base Camp Security and many other lessons.
“I therefore want to advise you to take the training seriously, your conduct would be monitored and assessed, and we would not induct any soldier committing any unacceptable act.
“During the training, you are to exhibit an aggressive posture with which you are expected to deal with in real life emergency situations.
“You are to fight back when you come under any form of threat or attack.
“The pre-deployment training affords you the opportunity to attain the high level of competence required for duty in Liberia.
“Make optimum benefit of this unique opportunity because you will have no other opportunity to correct your mistake after this place”, he said.
The General Officer Commanding, (GOC), 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Lagos, Maj.-Gen. Obi Umahi warned the troop to exercise utmost care while interacting with the locals in the host country.
Represented by Brig.-Gen. Adeniyi Oyebade, the GOC urged the troop to be resolute in dealing with operational matters.
“You should ensure total compliance with the mission’s rules of engagement, force protection measures and also stay away from anything that can ridicule the image of the country.
“Nigerian Army will not accept any situation where its troops are found wanting; hence the need for effective leadership at all levels.
“It is also vital to draw your attention to the United Nations’ zero tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse.
“As the mission draws down, many locals look for avenues to exploit unwary peacekeepers and by extension the United Nations”, he said.
The GOC reiterated the commitment of the Nigerian Army towards securing the nation and wished the troops a successful tour of duty in Liberia. (NAN)
