Nigerian Army Deployed Troops to Benin Republic During Elections, Says Army

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that it deployed troops to the Benin Republic in April 2026 as part of efforts to support democratic stability and prevent any breakdown of law and order during the country’s election period.

The development was disclosed on Monday in a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele.

Deployment Approved by Tinubu

According to the statement, the deployment was carried out on the directive of Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his capacity as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

The Army explained that the troops were strategically positioned before, during, and after the election process to provide a stabilising presence and help maintain peace across parts of the neighbouring country.

Although the troops were not directly involved in conducting the elections, the military said their presence was intended to deter potential security threats, reinforce public confidence, and support a peaceful democratic transition.

Troops Operated Under Operation Atilehin Alafiya II

The deployed personnel reportedly carried out patrols under “Operation Atilehin Alafiya II,” monitoring strategic areas and maintaining visible security operations within parts of the Cotonou metropolis and surrounding locations.

The Army noted that the operation formed part of Nigeria’s broader commitment to regional peace, stability, and cooperation within West Africa.

According to the statement, the troops maintained a strong security presence throughout the electioneering process in order to discourage violence or any disruption capable of threatening democratic order.

Security Support During Presidential Inauguration

The military further disclosed that the mission extended to the presidential inauguration of Romuald Wadagni.

Army personnel were reportedly deployed early on the day of the inauguration ceremony to key strategic locations to support security arrangements and ensure peaceful proceedings.

The Nigerian Army described the operation as a demonstration of its rapid deployment capability and readiness to support peacekeeping and stabilisation efforts within the framework of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Stability

The Army stated that the mission reflects Nigeria’s continued role in promoting regional security and democratic governance across West Africa.

Military authorities added that the operation aligns with Nigeria’s longstanding commitment to supporting peaceful political transitions and strengthening cooperation among ECOWAS member states.

The development comes amid ongoing regional concerns over political instability and security challenges in parts of West Africa, where ECOWAS has increasingly emphasised collective action to preserve democratic governance.