The Nigerian Senate has approved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request to deploy Nigerian troops to Benin Republic on a peace-support mission. The approval comes following the failed coup attempt in Benin, which prompted an urgent request for regional assistance under the auspices of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The decision was confirmed during plenary on Tuesday, after the President’s communication transmitted, last week was referred to the Committee of the Whole for expedited consideration. The Senate’s approval marks a critical step in Nigeria’s proactive engagement in regional security and democratic stabilization in West Africa.
According to the Presidency, the deployment is aimed at:
- supporting Benin Republic’s security forces in restoring order,
- preventing further escalation after the attempted unconstitutional takeover,
- ensuring ECOWAS protocols for peacekeeping and democratic support are implemented,
- and enhancing coordination between Nigeria and Benin on border and security matters.
Officials stressed that the mission is not a combat operation but a peace-support and stabilization assignment, focusing on intelligence sharing, logistical assistance, and strategic guidance to Benin authorities.
The troop deployment follows:
- Section 30(5) of Nigeria’s Constitution, requiring Presidential consultation with the National Defence Council,
- ECOWAS security protocols that provide for member-state support during threats to regional stability,
- prior air interventions by Nigeria to assist Benin Republic during the initial phase of the attempted coup.
The move reflects Nigeria’s commitment to regional peacekeeping, collective security, and the protection of democratic governance within West Africa.
Security analysts and diplomats welcomed the Senate approval, noting that:
- it reinforces Nigeria’s role as a regional security leader,
- strengthens ECOWAS’s capacity to deter unconstitutional power seizures,
- and signals to other member states the benefits of cooperation in crisis response.
ECOWAS and the Government of Benin are expected to coordinate closely with Nigeria to ensure the smooth and effective deployment of troops, while monitoring political developments and humanitarian needs.
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters will finalise rules of engagement for the deployed forces.Troop movements and logistical preparations are expected to begin immediately.Continuous briefings to the Senate and ECOWAS will track the progress and effectiveness of the mission.
Observers say the deployment, if successful, could serve as a model for ECOWAS peace-support operations, combining diplomatic engagement with rapid military assistance in crisis zones.
With Senate approval, President Tinubu can now deploy Nigerian troops to support Benin Republic’s security and democratic institutions, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability, peacekeeping, and ECOWAS solidarity. The coming weeks will determine how effectively the mission contributes to deterring future coups and stabilizing governance in the region.
