Source: Nigerian Army Headquarters, Department of Army Public Relations.
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 Ahmed Tinubu, deployed a company of troops to the Republic of Benin in April 2026 as part of proactive measures aimed at safeguarding democratic stability and preventing any breakdown of law and order during the country’s election period.
Although not directly tasked with election-related duties, the Nigerian Army contingent was strategically positioned to provide a stabilising security presence before, during and after the electoral process. The deployment was intended to deter potential security threats, reinforce public confidence and support a peaceful democratic transition, in line with Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace, security and cooperation.
Operating under Operation ATILEHIN ALAFIYA II, the troops maintained a high level of operational readiness throughout the mission. Activities included routine patrols, surveillance of key locations and the maintenance of a visible security presence across critical areas within the Cotonou metropolis and surrounding regions.
The mission culminated in the successful provision of security support during the 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 incident-free event.
The Commanding Officer exercised direct operational oversight at the venue, while additional elements were positioned across multiple static security locations. Mobile patrol teams also conducted area domination operations to enhance situational awareness, deter criminal activity and reinforce the overall security framework throughout the ceremony.
The successful execution of the mission demonstrates the Nigerian Army’s capability for rapid deployment, operational professionalism and readiness to support regional peace initiatives. It also highlights Nigeria’s leadership role in promoting democratic governance, stability and security across the West African sub-region.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with regional partners and relevant stakeholders to ensure a secure and peaceful environment throughout the region, in accordance with the objectives of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, commended the deployed troops for their discipline, resilience and exemplary conduct, noting that their performance reflected the core values and operational excellence of the Nigerian Army.
The Nigerian Army remains committed to upholding its constitutional mandate while contributing meaningfully to regional and international peace support operations.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several distinguished guests, including representatives of the Government of Nigeria. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, alongside other senior officials and dignitaries.
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