The Nigerian Army has announced the successful completion of a security deployment to the Republic of Benin, where its troops provided stabilising support during the country’s presidential election period and subsequent inauguration ceremony.
Acting on the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, a company of troops was deployed to the Benin Republic in April 2026 under Operation ATILEHIN ALAFIYA II to help maintain peace and order during a sensitive democratic transition.
Although not directly involved in election conduct, the troops were strategically positioned across the Cotonou metropolis and surrounding areas to deter security threats and reinforce public confidence before, during and after the electoral process.
The deployment culminated in direct security support at the presidential inauguration of President Romuald Wadagni, with Nigerian Army personnel deployed in the early hours of the ceremony to the main venue and other designated locations.
The Commanding Officer exercised direct oversight at the venue, while mobile patrol teams conducted area domination operations to enhance situational awareness and deter criminal elements.
Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima represented President Tinubu at the inauguration ceremony, which was also attended by other Nigerian dignitaries.
Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu commended the troops for their discipline and conduct, saying their performance reflected the core values and operational excellence of the Nigerian Army.
The army said the mission underscored Nigeria’s leadership role in promoting democratic governance and stability within the West African sub-region, and reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation in line with ECOWAS objectives. #Securitynewsalert.com
