The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace and democratic stability following the successful deployment of troops to the Republic of Benin under Operation ATILEHIN ALAFIYA II.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the deployment was carried out in April 2026 on the directive of President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as part of proactive efforts to prevent any breakdown of law and order during Benin Republic’s electioneering period.
The statement explained that although the troops were not directly involved in election conduct duties, they were strategically positioned to provide a stabilising security presence before, during and after the electoral process.
The Nigerian Army noted that the deployment was aimed at deterring potential threats, boosting public confidence and supporting a peaceful democratic transition in line with Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace, security and cooperation.
Throughout the operation, the troops maintained a high level of operational readiness by conducting patrols, monitoring critical locations and sustaining a visible security presence across key areas within Cotonou and surrounding communities.
The operation later culminated in the successful provision of security support during the inauguration ceremony of President Romuald Wadagni.
Troops were reportedly deployed to strategic locations, including the main inauguration venue and other designated points, where they established a layered security architecture that ensured a peaceful and hitch-free ceremony.
According to the statement, the Commanding Officer exercised direct operational oversight at the venue, while other personnel occupied static positions and mobile patrol teams carried out area domination operations to improve situational awareness and deter criminal activities.
The Nigerian Army described the mission as a demonstration of its rapid deployment capability, operational professionalism and readiness to support regional peace initiatives across West Africa.
It further stated that the operation highlights Nigeria’s leadership role in promoting democratic governance and stability within the sub-region in line with the objectives of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, commended the troops for their discipline, resilience and exemplary conduct, noting that their performance reflects the core values and operational excellence of the Nigerian Army.
The Army also reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with regional partners and relevant stakeholders to sustain peace and security across the region.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, alongside other government officials and delegates from Nigeria.
