Terrorism; Nigerian army deploys Soldiers to Benin Republic over regional security threats
Terrorism; Nigerian army deploys Soldiers to Benin Republic over regional security threats
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has disclosed that the Nigerian Army has deployed troops to the Benin Republic as part of regional efforts to combat terrorism and transnational crimes across West Africa.
Shaibu made the disclosure during the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference held in Abuja, according to counter-insurgency publication, Zagazola Makama.
The army chief said the deployment reflects Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening regional security cooperation and denying terrorist and criminal groups operational space within the sub-region.
He explained that the Nigerian Army remained focused on improving intelligence sharing, strategic alliances and joint operational mechanisms with neighbouring countries in response to emerging security threats.
According to him, the deployment to Benin Republic demonstrates Nigeria’s determination to reinforce collective security architecture within West Africa.
Shaibu stressed that military commanders at all levels must remain adaptive and mission-driven while deepening collaboration with other security agencies and multinational partners.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the military through interventions aimed at improving troop welfare, operational capacity and infrastructure development.
The COAS said the army had prioritised equipment modernisation, upgraded facilities and improved combat support services to enhance operational effectiveness.
He noted that refurbished military hardware, improved accommodation, enhanced healthcare services, medical evacuation systems and increased allowances had contributed to boosting troop morale and efficiency.
Shaibu added that the Nigerian Army would continue to promote civil-military relations through initiatives targeted at sustaining peace, addressing humanitarian concerns and supporting socio-economic development in host communities.
He further urged participants at the conference to remain innovative and solution-oriented in tackling evolving security challenges and preparing the army for future warfare realities.
Last December, the Senate approved President Tinubu’s request for the deployment of Nigerian troops to the Benin Republic as part of a regional peace-stabilisation mission aimed at safeguarding democratic institutions and preventing an “unconstitutional seizure” of power.
The approval followed the intervention of Nigerian Air Force personnel and ground troops in suppressing a coup attempt in the neighbouring country.
