By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Senegalese Minister of Defence, General Birame Diop (rtd), has paid a courtesy visit to the Force Headquarters of the Economic Community of West African States Stabilisation Support Mission in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB), located in Bissau City.
General Diop was accompanied by the Guinean Minister of Defence, Mr. Dionysio Cabi, and the Senegalese Ambassador to Guinea-Bissau, Ambassador Musa, among other senior officials. They were warmly received by the Force Commander, ESSMGB, Brigadier General Edward Odinya Ojabo, along with his staff officers and contingent commanders.
During his remarks, following a detailed briefing on the mission’s activities, achievements, and challenges, General Diop commended the Force Commander for what he described as a very comprehensive and enlightening presentation. He expressed appreciation for the performance of the Force and congratulated the Commander for the successes recorded so far.
The Honourable Minister encouraged the Force to continue fostering teamwork, unity, and mutual respect, emphasizing that solidarity should remain a core value. He noted that diversity must be embraced as a source of strength. He further charged the Force to uphold discipline at all levels on a daily basis, while also demonstrating tolerance towards one another.
General Diop also stressed the importance of respecting the host nation’s authorities and cooperating with local security agencies in the discharge of their duties.
He concluded by reminding the Force of the hardships the people of Guinea-Bissau have endured in the past, urging them to remain supportive and avoid actions that may worsen the people’s suffering. He underscored that the image and reputation of ECOWAS, as well as that of contributing countries, must be preserved at all times.
