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By Philip Nwosu
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace and security by successfully deploying 198 troops to The Gambia as part of the Economic Community of West African States Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG).
The deployment was carried out using the NAF’s C-130H transport aircraft, which airlifted personnel of Nigerian Company 11 (NIGCOY 11 ECOMIG) to replace Nigerian Company 10 (NIGCOY 10 ECOMIG), whose tour of duty had ended.
Conducted in two coordinated sorties between May 26 and May 30, 2026, the operation also transported operational equipment and the personal belongings of the deployed personnel, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition of responsibilities.
The successful airlift highlights the Nigerian Air Force’s growing strategic airlift capability and its ability to rapidly deploy forces beyond Nigeria’s borders in support of peacekeeping and regional security operations.
According to the Air Force, the operation further strengthens its position as a dependable air mobility partner for multinational peace support missions within the ECOWAS sub-region.
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The service noted that its sustained investment in operational readiness and strategic air mobility continues to enhance Nigeria’s leadership role in promoting peace, stability, and collective security across West Africa.
Commenting on the mission, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said strategic air mobility remains one of the most effective instruments for responding to evolving security challenges.
“Air power delivers its greatest effect when it provides the speed, reach, and flexibility to respond wherever national and regional security demands,” he said.
The Air Chief noted that every successful deployment strengthens Nigeria’s capacity to safeguard its national interests while making meaningful contributions to regional stability.
The Nigerian Air Force said the successful troop rotation aligns with the Chief of the Air Staff’s vision of building a highly motivated, professional, and combat-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power in joint operations with other security agencies.
It added that the mission not only enhances operational effectiveness but also deepens Nigeria’s strategic influence, strengthens military cooperation among ECOWAS member states, and contributes to sustained peace and security across the West African region.
