Nigeria Sends Warship on ‘Training Exercise’

The Nigerian Navy has confirmed that one of its warships is en route to Gambia. This event is being described by the navy as a “flag-showing and West Africa training” exercise, in light of the possible regional military intervention that Gambia is currently facing.

Captain Dahun Jahun, Nigerian Navy spokesperson, reported today that the warship is part of a show of force intended to assist in getting the president of Gambia to step down. It has been denied as a preparation for war.

“We are not involved in any preparation for military action in The Gambia [sic],” said Brigadier-General Rabe Abubakar, Director of Defence Information.
The West African regional bloc ECOWAS has confirmed that standby military forces are ready to intervene should President Yahya Jammeh refuse to set down and leave after losing elections. Jahun added that the Nigerian Air Force is contributing 200 soldiers to stand by. Senegal and Ghana are also said to be contributing to the standby force.