The Nigerian Army says it deployed troops to the Republic of Benin in April 2026 in a proactive move aimed at supporting democratic stability and preventing any breakdown of law and order during the country’s electioneering period. This development was announced on Monday in a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele.
The statement said the deployment was carried out on the directive of President and Commander in Chief, Bola Tinubu, and the troops were strategically positioned to provide a stabilising presence before, during and after the electoral process. Although not directly tasked with election conduct duties, the Nigerian Army troops were 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 conducted patrols under Operation Atilehin Alafiya II. They also monitored key locations and maintained a visible security presence across parts of the Cotonou metropolis and surrounding areas.
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The Army said the mission culminated in security support during the presidential inauguration of President Romuald Wadagni, where personnel were deployed early on the day of the ceremony to strategic locations. The Nigerian Army said the operation highlights its rapid deployment capacity and commitment to regional peace efforts within the framework of ECOWAS.
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