The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that it will today commence the withdrawal of Nigerian troops from peacekeeping operations in Mali.

Director of Defence Information (DDI), Brig-Gen. Chris Olukolade, said in a statement Tuesday that the troops that would be withdrawn were mainly those not accommodated in the structures of the newly formed United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).

"They are to join the ongoing internal security operations in the country. This followed the takeover of the mission from African-led International Support Mission in Mali (AFISMA) by the UN. Some of the soldiers will be redeployed immediately", he said. He however clarified that Nigeria's commitment and contribution to the Mali operations will be sustained in other forms.

The DDI explained that this would involve input of sizable men and materials to continue in the UN Mission.

According to him, Nigeria will be providing a full-fledged military hospital with full staff compliment; a signal squadron as well as staff officers in the Force Headquarters.

"A troop of the Mobile Police Force is also remaining in the mission", he added.