Two Gambian soldiers have graduated with honours from Senegal’s prestigious School of Non-Commissioned Officers (ENSOA), marking a significant milestone in regional military cooperation and capacity building.

Privates Samba Jobe and Jordan J. Gomez completed an intensive two-year training programme at ENSOA, earning distinction for their exceptional performance in combat, leadership, and specialised military skills. Both soldiers were awarded elite Commando and Parachutist badges, signifying their advanced operational readiness.

Their graduation was attended by senior military officials from both Senegal and The Gambia, with Senegal’s Defence Minister praising the duo’s professionalism and resilience. He highlighted their success as a reflection of the deepening military partnership between the two West African nations and its broader impact on regional security.

“Their achievements symbolise the strength of our cooperation and the importance of shared training in tackling modern security threats,” he said.

The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) also celebrated the soldiers’ accomplishments, describing them as a boost to the country’s defence capabilities. In a statement, the GAF emphasised that the graduates’ training in tactical operations, explosive ordnance disposal, and military instruction would enhance the force’s ability to respond to evolving security challenges.

“Their adaptability in both combat and instructional roles is a testament to their dedication and the effectiveness of our capacity-building agenda,” the statement added, referencing the Chief of Defence Staff’s policy to upskill all ranks.

The success of Privates Jobe and Gomez not only underscores The Gambia’s commitment to professionalising its armed forces but also reinforces long-standing bilateral defence ties with Senegal. Their expertise is expected to play a critical role in supporting joint operations, peacekeeping missions, and regional stability initiatives.