The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully airlifted 198 personnel of Nigerian Company 11 (NIGCOY 11 ECOMIG) to The Gambia to assume operational duties under the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), reaffirming its strategic air mobility capability and commitment to regional peace and security.
The operation, conducted aboard the NAF’s C-130H transport aircraft, was executed in two coordinated sorties between May 26 and May 30, 2026. It facilitated the seamless rotation of Nigerian Company 10 (NIGCOY 10 ECOMIG), while also transporting operational equipment and the personal effects of deployed personnel.
The successful deployment underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s capacity to project responsive and decisive air power beyond the country’s borders, enabling the rapid movement of troops in support of peacekeeping operations and regional stability across West Africa.
According to the NAF, the mission further highlights its growing role as a strategic enabler of multinational peace support operations and a dependable air mobility partner within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The Air Force noted that through sustained operational readiness, enhanced strategic airlift capability and mission-focused professionalism, it continues to strengthen Nigeria’s leadership in regional security while reinforcing the country’s reputation as a committed contributor to international peace support efforts.
The deployment also reflects Nigeria’s continued commitment to promoting peace, stability and collective security across the ECOWAS sub-region through the dedication and professionalism of the men and women of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Speaking on the significance of the mission, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said air power remains most effective when it provides the speed, reach and flexibility required to respond swiftly to national and regional 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.
He added that every successful airlift operation reinforces the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s strategic interests, supporting regional stability and maintaining a mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power whenever and wherever required.
“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 stated.
The successful troop rotation, according to the Air Force, reflects Air Marshal Aneke’s command philosophy of building a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces.
It added that the operation also advances Nigeria’s strategic influence, strengthens regional military partnerships and supports international peace and security through effective participation in ECOWAS-led peace support missions.
