Nigeria troop deployment approved as Senate backs President Tinubu’s request to send forces to Benin after the failed coup attempt
The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Tuesday approved President Bola Tinubu’s request for Nigeria troop deployment to the Republic of Benin, authorising the dispatch of forces to help stabilise the neighbouring country after last weekend’s attempted coup.
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the unanimous resolution during plenary in Abuja after a review of the president’s letter in the Committee of the Whole, as required by Section 5, Part II of the Constitution.
Godswill Akpabio said the decision was a timely act of regional solidarity, adding that unrest in Benin carried the risk of spilling across borders.
President Bola Tinubu had warned in his written request that the situation in Cotonou required urgent external intervention to prevent deterioration.
He stressed that Nigeria holds a historic responsibility under Economic Community of West African States security arrangements to support constitutional order in the region.
The attempted takeover in Benin on Sunday was launched by a faction of soldiers identifying themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation. Loyal troops swiftly repelled the mutineers, and sources close to President Patrice Talon said the government and regular army had regained control.
They added that the security sweep was progressing well and that the capital had returned to calm.
Following the failed uprising, the Economic Community of West African States ordered the deployment of elements of its Standby Force, drawing personnel from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana.
The mission is expected to support Benin’s republican army in securing state institutions and protecting its territorial integrity.
During Tuesday’s session, Godswill Akpabio described the Senate’s approval as an essential step to uphold regional stability, noting that an injury to one nation in West Africa could become a threat to all.
The remark drew nods across the chamber, capturing a rare moment of cross-party unity.
The Senate is expected to forward its formal resolution to President Bola Tinubu immediately, enabling the Defence Headquarters to activate deployment procedures without delay.
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The move underscores Nigeria’s continuing role as a stabilising force in West Africa and reflects the country’s longstanding commitment to collective security.
