Change of Guard at ECOMIG: Colonel Aliou Tine Assumes Command, Reaffirms ECOWAS’ Enduring Peace Mission in The Gambia By Raymond Enoch
Colonel Aliou Tine has officially assumed duty as the new Force Commander of the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), pledging unwavering commitment to regional security, democratic stability and the peaceful conduct of elections in close partnership with Gambian authorities and the country’s armed forces.
The new commander made the pledge January 8th 2026, during a formal handing-over and taking-over ceremony at the ECOMIG Headquarters in Bakau, marking the end of the tenure of the outgoing Force Commander, Colonel Ndiagne Diouf.
The ceremony, rich in military tradition and symbolism, was marked by the exchange of the ECOMIG command flag—an act that formally transferred authority, responsibility and leadership from Colonel Diouf to Colonel Tine. The moment underscored not only a change in command but the continuity of ECOWAS’ long-standing commitment to peace, security and constitutional order in The Gambia and the wider West African sub-region.
In his inaugural address, Colonel Tine paid tribute to his predecessor for his professionalism and dedication, noting that the progress recorded by ECOMIG in recent years reflects the collective resolve of ECOWAS member states to prevent conflict and safeguard democratic governance. He reaffirmed that ECOMIG would continue to work closely with the Government of The Gambia, the Gambia Armed Forces and other security institutions to maintain stability and support credible electoral processes.
“The mission of ECOMIG remains rooted in the core objectives of ECOWAS—peace, security, democracy and regional solidarity,” the new Force Commander stated, stressing that the mission would remain vigilant and proactive in addressing emerging security challenges while respecting national sovereignty.
Colonel Tine’s assumption of command comes at a critical time when ECOWAS continues to emphasize preventive diplomacy and collective security as pillars for sustaining peace across West Africa.
Since its deployment, ECOMIG has remained a stabilizing force in The Gambia, symbolizing the sub-regional body’s resolve to ensure that democratic gains are protected and irreversible.
The outgoing Force Commander, Colonel Ndiagne Diouf, in his valedictory remarks, expressed gratitude to ECOWAS leadership, the Government of The Gambia and ECOMIG personnel for their cooperation and support throughout his tenure. He urged officers and men of the mission to extend the same loyalty and professionalism to the new commander to ensure seamless continuity.
The high-profile ceremony attracted a distinguished gathering, 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.
As Colonel Aliou Tine takes the helm, the change of guard at ECOMIG reinforces the enduring vision of ECOWAS: a peaceful, stable and democratic West Africa, where collective action and continuity of service remain central to safeguarding the region’s future.
