Contrary to media report emanating from the Daily Observer on Thursday, August 3, 2017, edition Vol. 17. No. 144, that says “Defense Authorities Deny Deployment of 230 Nigerian Soldiers”, the Ministry of National Defense wants to inform the public that on Saturday, August 12, 2017, the Nigerian Contingent under the banner of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) will effectuate regular rotation of its troops and has nothing to do with the upcoming Liberian elections. This rotation exercise is a normal and regular part of UNMIL troops’ rotation. The troops will land in Liberia on 12 August 2017 and will end their tour of duty in March of 2018 thereby sealing the official rotation of Nigerian Contingent in Liberia under the banner of UNMIL.
The Ministry categorically refutes all quotations ascribed to the Assistant Minister for Public Affairs, David Kadiker Dahn. Being fully aware of compartmentation within the security sector, Minister Dahn, during a telephone call placed to him by reporter Cewhy Kwanue on August 2, 2017 regarding Nigerian troops expected in the country for elections, advised him to seek direct clarity from Honorable Brownie J. Samukai. The reporter unfortunately did not contact Minister Samukai, but rather went on to publish concocted information.
The Public Affairs Department at the Ministry of National Defense assures all media outlets of its fullest cooperation within limits regarding the provision of up to date and factual information concerning any issue that relates to the Ministry and the Armed Forces of Liberia.