By Adesakin Adefemi
President Bola Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their swift intervention in Benin Republic following an attempted military coup.
The coup plotters, led by Col. Pascal Tigri had seized the national television station on December 7, 2025, and claimed to have toppled President Patrice Talon.
The Benin government formally requested Nigeria’s military assistance, and Tinubu ordered the Nigerian Air Force to take control of Benin’s airspace and assist in flushing out the mutineers Nigerian troops were deployed to strategic locations, including the national broadcaster and a military camp.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, confirmed that all requests were carried out, stating, “Ours is to comply with the order of the Commander-in-Chief of our armed forces, President Tinubu
Tinubu, who chairs ECOWAS, said the intervention was in line with the bloc’s Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. “The Nigerian armed forces stood gallantly as a defender and protector of constitutional order in the Republic of Benin on the invitation of the government.”
The intervention was seen as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability and democratic values. Benin’s government later announced that the coup attempt had been suppressed and control restored.
The swift action by Nigerian troops was praised by regional leaders, who commended Tinubu for his leadership in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The incident highlights Nigeria’s role as a key player in West African politics and its commitment to upholding democratic principles.
The country’s military intervention in Benin Republic demonstrates its willingness to support neighbouring countries in times of crisis.
The successful foiling of the coup attempt is a significant victory for democracy in Benin Republic and a testament to the strength of Nigeria’s military partnership with its neighbours.
