President Barrow welcomes new ECOMIG commander, commends ECOWAS for sustained peace in Gambia

President Adama Barrow has hosted Colonel Ndiangne Diouf, the newly appointed ECOMIG Commander, at the State House in Banjul.

Senegambia Times correspondent gathered that the meeting marked a significant moment as the president expressed gratitude to ECOWAS Heads of State and the ECOMIG forces for their unwavering support in maintaining peace and stability in The Gambia over the past eight years.

Welcoming Colonel Diouf to his new role, President Barrow highlighted the importance of continued collaboration in ensuring the country’s security and stability.

“Your work here is essential to safeguarding the peace that The Gambia has enjoyed. I welcome you and look forward to a productive partnership,” the president stated.

Colonel Baboucarr Toure, the outgoing ECOMIG Commander, reflected on his tenure with pride, describing the role as a profound honor. “Serving as the ECOMIG Commander has been a privilege. I am grateful for the experience and for the opportunity to contribute to peace in The Gambia,” he remarked.

Sering Modou Njie, the Minister of Defence, praised Colonel Toure for his professionalism and dedication during his one-year term. “Colonel Toure is a career officer who demonstrated exceptional commitment to his duties. His service has been exemplary,” the minister noted.

Colonel Diouf expressed his readiness to build on the work of his predecessors, pledging to meet the expectations placed on him. “I am committed to upholding the mission’s objectives and will work closely with all stakeholders to ensure continued progress,” he assured.

Adding to the discussions, H.E. Miatta Lily French, the Resident Representative of the ECOWAS Commission in The Gambia, reiterated the commission’s commitment to supporting a smooth transition and strengthening peace efforts in the country.

The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts of ECOWAS, ECOMIG, and The Gambian government in fostering stability, setting the stage for continued peacebuilding initiatives under Colonel Diouf’s leadership.