The Nigerian Army announced that it sent troops to the Republic of Benin in April 2026 as a proactive measure to support democratic stability and ensure peace during the country’s election period.
Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations made this revelation through an official statement released on Monday. she noted that the operation was sanctioned by Bola Tinubu, President and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.
“The Nigerian Army (NA), acting on the directive of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Tinubu deployed a company of troops to the Republic of Benin in April 2026 as part of proactive measures to safeguard democratic stability and forestall any breakdown of law and order during the country’s electioneering period,
Although not directly tasked with election conduct duties, the Nigerian Army troops were strategically positioned to provide a stabilizing presence before, during and after the electoral process. The deployment was aimed at deterring potential security threats, reinforcing public confidence and supporting a peaceful democratic transition in line with Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace and cooperation.
“The troops, operating under Operation ATILEHIN ALAFIYA II, maintained a high level of operational readiness throughout their stay, conducting patrols, monitoring key locations and sustaining a visible security presence across critical areas within the Cotonou metropolis and its environs.
“This forward-leaning posture culminated in the successful provision of security support during the presidential inauguration ceremony of President Romuald Wadagni. Nigerian Army personnel were deployed in the early hours of the day to strategic locations, including the main inauguration venue and other designated points, establishing a comprehensive and layered security architecture that ensured a peaceful and hitch-free event.
“The Commanding Officer exercised direct operational oversight at the venue, while other elements were deployed across multiple static positions. In addition, mobile patrol teams conducted area domination operations to enhance situational awareness, deter criminal elements and reinforce the overall security framework throughout the duration of the ceremony.
“The successful execution of this mission underscores the capacity of the Nigerian Army for rapid deployment, operational professionalism and its readiness to support regional peace initiatives. It also highlights Nigeria’s leadership role in promoting democratic governance and stability within the West African sub-region.