Thursday, January 25, 2007
The African Union, hoping to bolster security in Somalia after Ethiopian and government troops routed Islamists, has approved a plan to send about 8,000 peacekeepers for a six-month mission that would eventually be taken over by the United Nations.
Nigeria said it hasn't officially been asked to participate, but is preparing to send troops to Somalia in case the request comes.
"There are indications that we might be asked to contribute troops for peacekeeping in Somalia. A battalion is being prepared in the event that we are asked" Col. Ayo Olaniyan, spokesman for the Nigeria army, said late Wednesday.
A battalion normally comprises about 600 troops.
Malawi and Uganda have also said they want to contribute troops, but no firm plans are in place.
Source: AP, Jan 25, 2007