NAF Airlifts 198 Troops to The Gambia for ECOWAS Peacekeeping Mission
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed 198 troops to The Gambia in support of the Economic Community of West African States Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace, security and stability.
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) following the completion of its tour of duty.
According to the Air Force, the troop rotation was conducted in two coordinated sorties between May 26 and May 30, 2026, with operational equipment and the personal effects of the deployed personnel also transported to ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities.
The successful operation highlights the Nigerian Air Force’s growing strategic airlift capability and its capacity to rapidly project forces beyond Nigeria’s borders in support of peacekeeping and regional security operations.
The service said the deployment further reinforces its role as a reliable air mobility partner for multinational peace support missions within the ECOWAS sub-region, while reflecting sustained investments in operational readiness and strategic airlift capabilities.
It added that the mission underscores Nigeria’s continued commitment to ECOWAS peace initiatives and demonstrates the professionalism and dedication of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria serving in international peace support operations.
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Commenting on the deployment, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said strategic air mobility remains a critical component of modern military operations and an effective tool 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.
Aneke noted that every successful airlift operation strengthens Nigeria’s capacity to protect its national interests while contributing to peace and stability across West Africa.
“Every successful airlift mission reinforces our commitment to protecting Nigeria’s interests, supporting regional stability and projecting a mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power whenever and wherever required,” the Air Chief added.
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 deployment will further enhance Nigeria’s strategic influence, deepen military cooperation among ECOWAS member states and contribute to sustained peace and collective security across the West African region.This version removes promotional language, tightens the structure, improves readability, and presents the information in a balanced, publication-ready news format consistent with professional defence and security reporting.
By PRNigeria
