Nigeria has confirmed that its armed forces carried out operations in the Republic of Benin on Sunday following an official request from Beninese authorities, reinforcing the country’s commitment to regional stability and democratic governance.
In a public statement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said the deployment was made “on my orders”, noting that Nigerian troops acted as defenders of constitutional rule after receiving an invitation from Benin’s legitimate government.
According to the statement, the intervention was conducted under the framework of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which guides member states in responding to threats against democratic institutions within the region.
The president commended the professionalism and dedication of the Nigerian armed forces, highlighting their role in helping stabilize a neighbouring country while upholding principles Nigeria has maintained since its return to democracy in 1999.
“Nigeria stands firmly with the government and people of the Republic of Benin,” the statement emphasized, signaling Abuja’s continued support for regional peace efforts.
The development comes amid heightened tensions in parts of West Africa, where several nations have experienced political instability in recent years.
Nigeria, as a leading member of ECOWAS, has repeatedly stressed its readiness to support constitutional governance across the sub-region.
