The Nigerian Army has deployed another batch of 700 officers and soldiers to Liberia on a peacekeeping mission after a 4-week special training in preparation for their induction into the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission.

During the passing out ceremony for troops at the Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Centre, Jaji, Kaduna State, the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, urged them to avoid any act capable of tarnishing the image of the nation.

The army chief who was represented by the Chief of Training and Operations, Hamza Umaru, also reminded the soldiers that the Nigerian Army would not tolerate any act of cowardice or professional negligence while carrying out their operations in Liberia.

He urged them to abide by the Rules of Engagement, exhibit braveness as professionals and to also respect the cultural sensitivity of the people of Liberia, while also reminding them of the United Nations’ zero tolerance for drug trafficking.

Acting Commandant of Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Centre, Adamu Dauda, said he was confident that the high level of enthusiasm and cohesion exhibited by the soldiers would reflect on their operational conduct.

The army authorities say the training exercise is in line with the Nigerian Army Headquarters’ desire to ensure that troops receive the needed robust and theatre-specific pre-deployment training prior to their induction into peacekeeping missions.

The contingents are expected to depart to Liberia in a couple of days.