By The Nigerian Army has confirmed the deployment of a company of troops to the Republic of Benin as part of efforts to maintain security and support democratic stability during the country’s 2026 election period.
According to a statement issued on Monday , May 25, 2026, by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the deployment was carried out in April 2026 on the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Army said the troops were deployed under Operation ATILEHIN ALAFIYA II to help prevent any breakdown of law and order before, during and after the elections in the neighbouring West African country.
The statement noted that although the soldiers were not directly involved in the conduct of the elections, they were positioned to provide security support and reassure residents through patrols and surveillance operations across strategic areas in Cotonou and surrounding locations.
The operation also covered security arrangements during the inauguration of Benin Republic’s President, Romuald Wadagni.
The Army said personnel were stationed at key locations around the inauguration venue while mobile patrol teams carried out area domination operations to deter criminal activities and maintain situational awareness throughout the ceremony.
“The deployment was 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 statement said.
It added that the operation demonstrated the Nigerian Army’s readiness for rapid deployment and regional peace support missions.
“The successful execution of this mission underscores the capacity of the Nigerian Army for rapid deployment, operational professionalism and its readiness to support regional peace initiatives,” the statement added.
The Army also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to promoting democratic governance and stability within the West African sub-region through collaboration with regional partners and the Economic Community of West African States.
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, commended the troops for what he described as their discipline and professionalism during the mission.
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Tinubu at the inauguration ceremony attended by several dignitaries from Nigeria and other countries.
