Colonel Aliou Tine has officially assumed office as the new Force Commander of the Economic Community of West African States Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), reaffirming the mission’s commitment to regional security and the conduct of peaceful elections in the country.
The change of command took place during a formal handing-over and taking-over ceremony at the ECOMIG Headquarters in Bakau, where Colonel Tine succeeded the outgoing Force Commander, Colonel Ndiagne Diouf.
In his acceptance speech, Colonel Tine stressed ECOMIG’s continued role in maintaining stability and supporting democratic processes in collaboration with Gambian authorities and the armed forces.
“We remain committed to ensuring regional security and supporting peaceful electoral processes through close cooperation with the Gambian authorities and the armed forces,” he said.
The ceremony featured the symbolic exchange of the ECOMIG command flag, a longstanding military tradition that signifies the formal transfer of authority and operational responsibility between commanders.
The event was attended by several high-profile 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 ECOMIG officers and personnel.
Observers noted that the leadership transition comes at a crucial time as The Gambia prepares for future electoral activities, with ECOMIG expected to continue playing a key stabilising role in the nation’s security framework.
Colonel Ndiagne Diouf was commended for his service and leadership during his tenure, while confidence was expressed in Colonel Tine’s ability to sustain and strengthen ECOMIG’s mission in The Gambia.
