Nigerian contingent serving under the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG) has a new commander following the formal handover of leadership from Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Agada to Lieutenant Colonel Yahaya Mohammed Abdullahi.
The change of command ceremony, held on Monday, June 29, marked the end of Lt Col Agada’s one-year tour of duty as Commander of Nigerian Contingent 10 and the beginning of Lt Col Abdullahi’s leadership of Nigerian Contingent 11.
The ceremony officially transferred command and responsibility to the new commander, while also reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to the ECOWAS peace support mission in The Gambia.
Addressing officers and soldiers during the event, the outgoing commander congratulated Lt Col Abdullahi on his appointment and said he was confident he would lead the contingent with dedication and professionalism.
Agada also urged the troops to give their new commander their full support and cooperation, noting that every successful commander depends on the discipline and commitment of the personnel under his leadership.
Officers and soldiers of the Nigerian contingent witnessed the handover, which was conducted in keeping with the military tradition of ensuring a smooth transition of leadership without disrupting ongoing operations.
Following the ceremony, members of the outgoing Nigerian Contingent 10 departed The Gambia for Nigeria after completing their one-year peacekeeping mission under the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia.
Captain Babale Kela, Public Information Officer of Nigerian Contingent 11, said the successful transition reflects the professionalism of the Nigerian Army and its continued role in supporting peace and stability across the West African sub-region.
