The Nigerian Army has confirmed the deployment of troops to the Republic of Benin as part of efforts to support democratic stability and maintain peace during the country’s election period.
In a statement issued on Monday, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the deployment was carried out in April 2026 on the directive of President Bola Tinubu.
According to the Army, the mission was designed to help prevent any breakdown of law and order and reinforce public confidence throughout the electioneering process.
“The Nigerian Army, acting on the directive of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 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,” the statement said.
The Army clarified that the troops were not directly involved in election management but provided a stabilising security presence before, during and after the electoral process.
Operating under Operation ATILEHIN ALAFIYA II, the soldiers reportedly maintained patrols, monitored strategic locations and sustained visible security operations across parts of Cotonou and surrounding communities.
The military said the operation later extended to providing security support during the inauguration of Benin Republic’s President, Romuald Wadagni.
According to the statement, troops were deployed to the inauguration venue and other strategic points early on the day of the ceremony, creating what the Army described as a “comprehensive and layered security architecture” that ensured a peaceful event.
The Commanding Officer reportedly supervised operations directly, while mobile patrol teams conducted area domination exercises to improve situational awareness and deter criminal activity.
The Army said the mission demonstrated its rapid deployment capability, operational professionalism and commitment to regional peace and democratic stability within the ECOWAS sub-region.
“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,” the statement added.
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, commended the deployed troops, describing their conduct as a reflection of the Army’s professionalism and core values.
President Bola Tinubu was represented at the inauguration ceremony by Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside other Nigerian dignitaries.
