The Nigerian Army has confirmed the deployment of a company of troops to the Republic of Benin in April 2026 to support security and democratic stability during the country’s election period.
In a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army said the deployment was carried out on the directive of President Bola Tinubu as part of efforts to ensure a peaceful electoral process in the neighbouring West African nation.
According to the statement, the troops were not involved in the conduct of the elections but were deployed to provide a stabilising presence before, during, and after the polls.
The military operation, code-named Operation ATILEHIN ALAFIYA II, was aimed at deterring potential security threats and reinforcing public confidence throughout the election period.
Under the operation, the deployed troops conducted patrols, monitored strategic locations, and maintained a visible security presence in Cotonou and surrounding areas.
The Army added that the mission concluded with the troops providing security support during the inauguration ceremony of President Romuald Wadagni.
The Nigerian Army said the deployment reflected Nigeria’s continued commitment to regional peace, security, and democratic governance within the West African sub-region.