Nigeria Police Sending 140 Men To Mali

The Nigeria Police Force will next Monday deploy a unit of 140 officers and men to Mali in support of the ECOWAS and the African Union-led peace initiatives in that country.

A statement today by police spokesman Frank E. Mba said that the deployment is part of efforts by the Nigerian Government to strengthen the onslaught against domestic and global terrorism and help in restoring peace in troubled parts of Africa.
The Formed Police Unit will comprise specialized sections trained in riot control and counter-terrorism, and will be equipped with modern crime fighting and peacekeeping equipment.  They will be joining seven Staff Officers already deployed to Mali, led by DCP Subair O. Kamar, the Deputy Police Commissioner in-charge of the African Mission in Mali.

IGP MD Abubakar handing over the Nigerian National Flag and the Nigeria Police Flag to CSP Odubona Oludotun, Commander of the Formed Police Unit (FPU), as a symbol of authority to represent the Nation and the Force in the African-led International Support Mission in Mali, while the Director of Peacekeeping, CP Kayode Aderanti watches on.

Speaking to members of the unit at the official flag presentation ceremony at Force Headquarters, the Inspector-General of Police, MD Abubakar, charged them to display at all times, dedication and true commitment in the discharge of assigned roles, Mba said.

“He urged them to be good ambassadors, not just of the Nigeria Police Force, but also of the Nigerian nation and must therefore, fly the country’s flag with pride. He advised members of the contingent to conduct themselves with the highest degree of discipline and professionalism; and shun all forms of vices. The IGP enjoined them to respect the laws and customs of their host country and endeavour to bring honours through exemplary service to humanity, to their fatherland and to themselves.”

Source: SaharaReporters, New York