The Nigerian Government has again deployed 800 Officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army on a Peace Support Operation in Darfur Region of Sudan.

The 800 all ranks drawn from the 342 Artillery Regiment Owerri under 82 Division, Enugu, are to leave Nigeria to Darfur on Sunday.

This was disclosed today at the graduation of the troops’ pre-deployment training at the Nigerian Army Peace Keeping Centre (NAPKC), Jaji, Kaduna, North West Nigeria.

Speaking at the occasion, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division Enugu, Major General Ashimiyu Olaniyi, said the four weeks pre-deployment training given to the troop was to enable them protect themselves, United Nations equipment and the loyal citizens of their host nation.

The GOC who was represented by Brigadier General Abubakar Alkali warned the peacekeepers to avoid being seen as a soft target due to carelessness or act of cowardice.

According to him, “I must categorically state that you must fight to discharge your duties in consonance with the mission mandate when the need arises. I must also remind you that Rules of Engagement in the mission has given you all the latitude to exhibit bravery and fight like professional soldiers while you protect yourself, your colleagues, law abiding civilians and properties in the cause of executing your task.”

Earlier, the Commandant of NAPKC, Major General Salihu Uba, disclosed that, the troops have been adequately trained to ensure effective performance in any Peace Support Operation, with particular emphasis on effective operations in Darfur.

•Photo shows Nigerian troops.