The people of Mali especially those that are liberated from the claws of the Islamist terrorists have expressed their appreciation to the Nigerian contingent for their freedom.

The headquarters of the Nigerian contingent in the African-led International Support Mission to Mali (AFISMA) was last week paid courtesy visits by some community leaders in Mali to appreciate their support.

The first visit was on 7th February by the civil administrator and governor of Koulukoro, Mali, Mr Allayey Tessouguend accompanied by mayor of Banamba, Mr Boubakar Bagayoko with some Malian senior military officers. On the 11 February, the contingent was also visited by the mayor of Touba town, Mallam Amara Nega Sylla who was accompanied by the sub-prefect of Touba town, Mr Abdulahi Dicko and the mayor of Banamba, Boubakar Bagayoko along with several Malian military and gendarmerie officers.

According to a statement issued by the Defence Headquarters and signed by the spokesman, Col. Yerima Mohammed, "the visibly delighted community leaders in their different speeches expressed their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation on behalf of their communities and indeed the Malian people on the timely presence of the Nigerian troops and other friendly militaries that are on ground to bring peace and stability to Mali. They were unanimous in acknowledging Nigeria's renowned leadership role in peacekeeping which according to them was an essential spirit of African brotherhood."

"Receiving the community leaders on behalf of the commanding officer of the Nigerian Contingent, Maj., AD Alhassan thanked them for their visits and assured them that Nigeria was committed to the quick resolution of the crisis in Mali noting that a lasting peace in Mali is key to the overall peace in the ECOWAS sub-region. He urged the people to remain steadfast and always provide information that will assist the troops in their operation."