The solemn ceremony was highlighted by the symbolic exchange of the ECOMIG command flag, signifying the transfer of authority and responsibility between the two senior officers.
The event brought together high-level dignitaries, including the Senegalese High Commissioner to The Gambia, the National Security Adviser, representatives of the Chief of Defence Staff, senior officers of the Gambia Armed Forces, contingent commanders, as well as officers and men of ECOMIG.
The ceremony underscored ECOWAS’s continued commitment to peace, stability, and democratic consolidation in The Gambia, as ECOMIG enters a crucial phase of its mission.
In his acceptance remarks, Colonel Aliou Tine described his appointment as a great honour bestowed by ECOWAS and the Government of The Gambia.
He commended Colonel Diouf and his team for their achievements and pledged to preserve and build upon the legacy they have established. “My intention is to work closely with the existing staff, Gambian security forces, and national authorities to sustain peace and security,” Colonel Tine said.
Emphasising regional unity, he said: “Senegalese are Gambians, and Gambians are Senegalese. Our shared security is my core mission.”
Colonel Tine also acknowledged the strategic importance of the forthcoming electoral period, reaffirming his commitment to supporting peaceful elections in close collaboration with Gambian authorities and armed forces.
In her remarks, Miata Lily French, ECOWAS Head of Bureau, expressed gratitude to Colonel Diouf for his dedicated service to The Gambia and the sub-region.
She noted that at a time when security challenges are increasing globally and regionally, ECOMIG’s role remains vital in ensuring stability and creating an environment conducive for economic growth.
Mrs Lily French reiterated that since its deployment in 2018, ECOMIG has played a central role in maintaining peace and supporting democratic governance in The Gambia.
While the mission is gradually approaching its conclusion, she emphasised that the coming months are particularly critical as the country prepares for upcoming elections.
“This year is a very important period for The Gambia,” the Head of Mission stated. “Our responsibility is to ensure that the electoral process remains peaceful so that the country can continue moving forward economically and politically.”
Welcoming the new Force Commander, the ECOWAS head of mission to The Gambia stressed that although the mission has settled into a routine, emerging challenges require vigilance and proactive responses.
Colonel Tine was assured of full support from mission headquarters and contingent commanders to ensure a successful completion of the ECOMIG mandate.
For his part, the outgoing Force Commander Colonel Ndiagne Diouf reflected on his one-year tenure, expressing deep appreciation to the Government and people of The Gambia, ECOWAS authorities, and mission leadership for their unwavering support.
He highlighted key achievements of his command, including medical assistance to over 8,000 people, the conduct of more than 100 security missions, and over 40 joint patrols with Gambian security forces.
Colonel Diouf praised the contributions of ECOMIG contingents from Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, noting that their cooperation was instrumental to the mission’s success.
