The Nigerian Army has confirmed that troops were deployed to the Benin Republic in April 2026 as part of efforts to support democratic stability during the country’s election period.
In a statement issued on Monday, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, said the deployment was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under Operation Atilehin Alafiya II.
According to the Army, the operation was designed to help prevent any breakdown of law and order and ensure a peaceful electoral process leading to the transfer of power to President-elect Romuald Wadagni.
Anele explained that although the troops were not assigned direct election duties, they were strategically positioned to maintain stability before, during and after the polls.
She said the deployment aimed to deter possible security threats, boost public confidence and support a peaceful democratic transition in line with Nigeria’s regional peace commitments.
The Army spokesperson added that troops maintained a high level of operational readiness throughout the mission, carrying out patrols, monitoring strategic locations and sustaining visible security operations across the Cotonou metropolis and surrounding areas.
She noted that the mission demonstrated the Nigerian Army’s rapid deployment capability, operational professionalism and readiness to support peace initiatives across West Africa.
Anele also reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to working with regional partners and stakeholders to maintain peace and security in line with the objectives of the Economic Community of West African States.
