Troops for peacekeeping operations from Nigeria, the Nigerian Base Defence Company were on Wednesday 15 March 2023 deployed into the United Nations Interim Security Force Abyei (UNISFA) to join the rest of the Multinational Peacekeeping Force.
The induction of the Nigerian UN Peacekeepers, completes the 8-contingent member troops contributing countries in UNISFA.
Speaking during the Parade held to commemorate the one year anniversary, the Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander, Major General Benjamin Olufemi Sawyerr stated that despite initial challenges, the Force has been able to achieve its mandate by providing protection of civilians and engaging with the 2-host governments.
He said UNISFA has also engaged host communities to encourage dialogue, support Humanitarian Agencies to assist the people and provide support to the two-country teams of Juba and Khartoum to implement the Programmatic Funding Activities.
Gen Sawyerr appreciated the cooperation and collaboration of the Local Administration and the Traditional Institutions in forging peaceful dialogue that would lead to the determination of the final status of Abyei.
He commended the support of the UN Headquarters for high level visits, budgetary allocations and logistics support.
He praised the AFPs, humanitarian agencies and NGOs for their support in delivering Humanitarian assistance to the communities.
General Sawyerr further praised the Military, Police and Civilian components of the Mission for working in synergy of vision.
He reeled out several achievements attained by the Mission within one year and stated that the Rule of Law support strategy as well as the SOP on Detention will be strengthened to uphold the fundamental human rights of the people.
He further stated that the Mission will continue to function under the UN core values of Integrity, impartiality, professionalism and respect for gender and diversity.
He acknowledged the roles being played by the Female Engagement Teams and is happy that all contingents will continue to increase women participation in UN Peacekeeping.
Despite the numerous achievements, the Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander stated that there are still existing challenges that must be tackled.
He urged the Peacekeepers not to rest on their oars but be spurred to give their best noting that Peacekeeping is a thankless job which is carried out for the purpose of global peace.
