Senegal’s Minister of Defence, General Birame Diop (rtd), has applauded the men and women of the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB), describing their performance as “remarkable and reassuring” in the face of the country’s fragile security challenges.
General Diop, who visited the Mission’s Force Headquarters in Bissau on September 19, was accompanied by Guinea-Bissau’s Defence Minister, Mr. Dionysio Cabi, and Senegal’s Ambassador to Guinea-Bissau, Ambassador Musa. They were warmly received by the Force Commander, Brigadier General Edward Odinya Ojabo, along with his staff officers and contingent commanders.
After listening to a detailed briefing on the mission’s operations, achievements, and challenges, the Senegalese Defence Minister did not mince words in praising the troops.
“I must say, Commander, that your presentation was comprehensive and enlightening. I appreciate the great work you and your men are doing here. ECOWAS, and indeed our people back home, are proud of you,” he said.
He further urged the mission to hold firmly to the values of teamwork, unity, and discipline, stressing that diversity within the ranks should be seen as a source of strength rather than division.
“Solidarity must remain at the heart of your operations. Treat one another with respect and tolerance. Remember, it is this spirit that makes us stronger as a collective force,” Diop emphasized.
The retired General also reminded the troops to maintain close cooperation with Guinea-Bissau’s local security agencies and respect the country’s authorities in their daily operations.
Speaking with a note of empathy, he recalled the years of hardship endured by the people of Guinea-Bissau.
“The people of this country have suffered enough. As peacekeepers, it is our duty to ease their burdens, not add to them. Your conduct will shape how ECOWAS and your home countries are remembered in their hearts,” he said firmly.
Brigadier General Ojabo, in turn, assured the visiting dignitaries of the troops’ continued commitment to their mandate, while thanking them for their support.
The visit, observers say, was more than a routine diplomatic call. It served as a reminder that behind the uniforms are soldiers representing the hopes of a troubled nation, and behind every mission briefing lies the human cost of peacekeeping.
Senegalese Defence Minister Hails ECOWAS Troops in Guinea-Bissau, Urges Discipline, Solidarity
