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The Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), Major General Benjamin Olufemi Sawyerr on Monday bestowed UN Medal Awards on the Commanding Officer and personnel of the Nigerian Base Defence Company (NBDC 1) deployed to UNISFA.
The ceremony, known as the Medal Parade, drew distinguished attendees including traditional leaders of the Ngok Dinka Chiefdoms of the Abyei Box, the Deputy Force Commander, the Chief of the Joint Border Verification Monitoring Mechanism and members of the mission leadership team.
Others include the force Chief of Staff and principal staff officers of the force headquarters, Contingent Commanders, department heads, military observers, and civilian staff of the mission.
During his address, General Sawyerr expressed profound satisfaction and national pride in presenting the medal awards to the pioneering Nigerian Contingent, recognizing their meritorious service upon completion of their tenure in the mission.
The NBDC-1 commenced its deployment to UNISFA on the 9th of March 2023, comprising 160 personnel of all ranks, including a notable contingent of 32 female peacekeepers, the highest representation within the mission, fulfilling the UN’s requirement of a minimum of 10 percent female participation from Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs).
Subsequently, the unit’s strength increased to 171 personnel, incorporating a Close Protection Team for the acting head of mission and Force Commander, comprising 11 personnel, deployed on the 25th of November 2023.
General Sawyerr lauded the NBDC for its exceptional dedication in upholding Nigeria’s reputation in UN Peacekeeping efforts and its significant contribution to global peace initiatives.
He highlighted the unit’s professionalism, innovation, and strategic leadership under the guidance of Contingent Commander Colonel Esidiong James Nkereuwem, which facilitated Nigeria’s distinguished representation in UNISFA.
Praising the troops for their effective protection of the Force and Mission Headquarters camp, successful implementation of Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities to garner support from the Abyei community, and enhancement of UNISFA’s operational efficiency in fulfilling its mission mandate, General Sawyerr reiterated his pride in their accomplishments.
He also commended the Commanding Officer for the adept management of the contingent, ensuring a disciplined and incident-free tenure since their arrival in the mission area.
General Sawyerr emphasized that the NBDC-1 had admirably fulfilled its obligations in advancing UNISFA’s mandate, setting a commendable precedent for future Nigerian contingents slated for deployment.
By PRNigeria
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