The Commander Sector South, United Nations-African Union Hybrid Operations in Darfur (UNAMID) and Nigerian Contingent Commander, Brig Gen Anthony Atolagbe has called on all UNAMID forces to remain focused and continue to operate within the UN mandate. Gen Atolagbe disclosed this during a farewell Cultural/Dinner night organized in his honour by the Multi-National Units under his command in Nyala, South Darfur, Sudan.
Brig Gen Atolagbe said that the UN mandate is the primary reason why the various contingents have left their country to serve in the mission area. As such they must all strive to protect and operate within the operational guidelines of the Memorandum of Understanding as signed by their various countries.
He further stressed that he has seen and worked with units and individuals who have shown true courage, discipline and loyalty which are core values of the Armed forces world over. Adding that he would always remember his experience of serving in Darfur.
Col ZA Saidu presents a gift to the out going sector commader Brig Gen AM Atolagbe
‘I must say without mincing words, I leave you with mixed feelings, you have all supported me, shown me loyalty, courage and the high level of discipline displayed by all my Staff officers and the units here has been remarkable without which my stay here would not have been as it is today. I must commend you all for all you have been to me and hope that we have made possible impacts in our coming together’.
The Sector South commander called on all the unit commanders to continue to ensure that the level of discipline is maintained saying that it is only when troops are disciplined that the ultimate aim of the United Nations which is the protection of UN personnel, civilians, the vulnerable persons and the internally displace persons would be achieved. He stressed the need for the bound of friendship to continue to exist even beyond the mission area.
While extolling the outgoing sector commander, the Deputy Commander Sector South Col Rahaman Mohammed of Bangladesh Army said that Gen Atolagbe is an experienced and highly intelligent officer whose knowledge and broad ideas have effectively ensured a peaceful coexistence among not just the military components of the sector but also the civilian staff.
Cultural troops from Idoma community of Nigeria
He eulogised General Atolagbe and urged everyone to emulate the disciplined and focused senior officer. Col Rahman then wished him well in all his endeavours as he takes up a higher appointment as the Director Army Headquarters Peace Keeping.
The night was an eventful one as all the commanding officers of the various contingents were present. There were cultural dishes/dance from all the multi-National contingents such as Egypt, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Tanzania among others.
By Lt JB Akubo
