Fresh leadership assumes control of Nigeria's military presence in Guinea-Bissau

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The Nigerian Army has completed the rotation of its troops serving under the ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau, with Lieutenant Colonel Afam Junior Chidi assuming command of the Nigerian contingent from Lieutenant Colonel Bibode Clarke.

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The army shared on Tuesday that the handover ceremony was held on August 3 at the Nigerian Contingent Headquarters in Bissau, marking the transition from Nigerian Company 4 to Nigerian Company 5 following the routine rotation of troops in the mission area.

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The Nigerian Army disclosed the development in a statement issued by the Mission Public Information Officer, Major Yahaya Nasir Kabara.

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In his farewell address, Clarke described the troop rotation as “a routine exercise aimed at rejuvenating operational effectiveness and sustaining the professionalism of the Nigerian Army.”

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He thanked officers and soldiers for their support during his one-year tenure, noting that the “contingent had contributed to the maintenance of peace, security and stability in Guinea-Bissau.”

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Clarke also urged personnel of Nigerian Company 5 to uphold “the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, and commitment in the discharge of their duties.”

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Taking over command, Chidi commended his predecessor for what he described as exemplary leadership and a smooth transition process.

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He pledged to build on the achievements of Nigerian Company 4 and continue supporting the mandate of the ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission in promoting peace, security and stability in Guinea-Bissau.

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The ceremony featured the signing of the handing and taking-over notes, inspection of the Quarter Guard, the formal transfer of command and the Nigerian Company flag, as well as group photographs.

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Photos credit: Nigerian Army

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