FG deploys troops to Benin Republic in regional anti-terror push 

Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Army Staff,  says the Nigerian Army has deployed troops to the Benin Republic as part of renewed efforts to combat terrorism and transnational organised crime across the West African sub-region.

Shaibu disclosed this at the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference held in Abuja.

The Army Chief explained that the deployment is part of Nigeria’s  strategy to deepen intelligence sharing, strengthen strategic partnerships, and reinforce collaborative security mechanisms aimed at denying criminal and terrorist networks freedom of action within Nigeria and across neighbouring states.

He said the move underscores Nigeria’s commitment to reinforcing regional security architecture and ensuring coordinated responses to emerging threats within the sub-region.

According to him, military commanders at all levels are expected to remain adaptive, mission-focused, and fully committed to inter-agency and multinational cooperation in ongoing and future operations.

Shaibu also commended the President  Bola Tinubu, for what he described as sustained support for the Army through strategic interventions aimed at improving personnel welfare, infrastructure development, and overall operational readiness.

He noted that the Nigerian Army has prioritised equipment modernisation, infrastructure upgrades, and enhanced combat support services to improve efficiency on the battlefield and boost troop morale.

Shaibu added that improvements in accommodation, healthcare delivery, medical evacuation systems, and increased allowances have contributed significantly to enhancing the welfare and effectiveness of personnel deployed in various operations.

The Army Chief further stated that the service will continue to strengthen civil-military cooperation initiatives aimed at promoting peace, addressing humanitarian challenges, and supporting socio-economic development in host communities affected by insecurity.

He urged participants at the conference to remain innovative and solution-driven in addressing evolving security threats, stressing the need to prepare the Nigerian Army for the realities of modern and future warfare.

Nigeria’s military engagement in the sub-region follows earlier regional security actions, including a Senate-backed authorisation in December approving the deployment of Nigerian troops to Benin Republic as part of a stabilisation mission.

The approval came after intervention efforts involving the Nigerian Air Force and ground troops to counter a reported coup attempt in the neighbouring country, aimed at safeguarding democratic governance and preventing unconstitutional seizure of power.