ABYEI, SOUTH SUDAN The Nigerian Contingent 1 (NIGCON 1) within the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) in South Sudan, under the leadership of Col. Esidiong Nkereuwem, has successfully concluded its one-year tour of duty and returned to Nigeria. The handover of responsibilities to NIGCON 2, led by Lt. Col. Johnson Apir, marked the completion of the rotation process initiated on April 5, 2024, and finalized on April 15, 2024.

Throughout its deployment, NIGCON 1 played a pivotal role within the UNISFA Mission in Abyei, securing the Mission’s Headquarters, safeguarding civilians, facilitating crisis resolution, and upholding Nigeria’s reputation while fulfilling UNISFA’s mandate.

During the formal handover ceremony, outgoing Contingent Commander Col. Esidiong Nkereuwem commended the troops for their exemplary performance, attributing it to their unwavering dedication and professionalism. He extended his best wishes to the incoming commander, urging him to maintain the standards set and to represent Nigeria with distinction. Col. Nkereuwem expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for their trust and support throughout the mission. Additionally, he acknowledged the guidance provided by the Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander of UNISFA, Maj. Gen. Benjamin Olufemi Sawyer.

In a rare farewell parade organized by the Mission Headquarters to honor NIGCON 1 for its outstanding contributions to peace and security in Abyei, Deputy Force Commander Brig. Gen. Ameer Muhammad, representing the Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander UNISFA, expressed gratitude to the troops for their service. He conveyed the mission’s well wishes to the Nigerian government and military authorities.

Nigeria’s active participation in peacekeeping operations underscores its commitment to regional and global peace initiatives. The deployment of Nigerian peacekeepers to UNISFA reaffirms the nation’s dedication to promoting stability and security on the international stage.