INSURGENCY: NIGERIA SENDS 140 POLICEMEN TO MALI

The inspector-general of police
yesterday charged about 140 officers and men deployed to form a police unit in
Mali to show the highest degree of loyalty to their fatherland and return as
good ambassadors of the country.

Abubakar gave the admonition during the
presentation of the Nigerian and the Nigeria Police flags to the peace mission
contingent in support of the Economic Community of West Afrcan States (ECOWAS)
and the African Union-led peace initiatives in Mali.

The Unit which leaves the country on
June 10, for Bamako, the Malian capital, comprised of specialized sections
trained in riot control and counter-terrorism; and equipped with modern crime
fighting and peacekeeping equipment.

 Addressing the members of the
contingent, the IGP who urged them to fly thee Nigerian flag with pride,
charged them to display true commitment in the discharge of assigned roles and
urged them to be good ambassadors, not just of the Nigeria Police Force, but
also of the Nigerian nation.

 He advised them to conduct
themselves with the highest degree of discipline and professionalism; and shun
all forms of vices. Abubakar enjoined them to respect the laws and customs of
their host country and endeavour to bring honours through exemplary service to
humanity, to their fatherland and to themselves.

According to a statement signed by the
Force spokesman, Mr Frank Mba and made available to LEADERSHIP Weekend, the
present deployment to Mali brings to ten the number of countries Nigeria Police
officers are currently serving on international peace keeping assignment.