President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has warmly commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their swift and decisive role in helping the Republic of Benin foil a dangerous military coup attempt, describing their action as a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s commitment to democracy, peace, and regional stability.
The move underscores Nigeria’s growing leadership role in West Africa and highlights President Tinubu’s firm stance that constitutional order must be protected across the region.
A Swift Intervention That Saved Democracy
According to official reports, mutinous soldiers in Benin briefly took over national television and attempted to announce the overthrow of President Patrice Talon. In response to urgent requests from the Beninese government, Nigeria acted with speed and precision.
President Tinubu authorized the Nigerian Air Force to deploy fighter aircraft and provide airspace control while working with loyal Beninese forces to dislodge the coup plotters from strategic locations. This rapid response helped bring the situation under control within hours.
Tinubu praised the professionalism and courage of Nigerian troops, noting that their actions prevented political chaos and protected innocent lives.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Role as a Regional Stabiliser
By standing firmly with Benin Republic, Nigeria sent a strong signal that military takeovers will not be tolerated in West Africa. This aligns with President Tinubu’s broader vision of a region governed by the rule of law, democratic institutions, and mutual security cooperation.
Under Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria has embraced its responsibility as a regional anchor state, working closely with ECOWAS and neighbouring countries to prevent instability.
Professionalism of the Nigerian Armed Forces
The President described the Nigerian military as a “pillar of democracy and national pride,” applauding their discipline, intelligence-led operations, and respect for international protocols.
Security experts have credited the intervention as a textbook example of regional military cooperation, where speed, coordination, and lawful authority prevented bloodshed and political collapse.
A Clear Message to Coup Plotters Across Africa
Tinubu’s response sends a firm warning to anti-democratic forces across Africa:
Democracy will be defended, and legitimate governments will be protected.
In an era where parts of Africa have witnessed unconstitutional changes of government, Nigeria’s firm action in Benin stands as a strong counter-message — that power must always come through the ballot, not the barrel of a gun.
Building a Safer, More Stable West Africa
The Benin intervention reflects Tinubu’s broader regional security doctrine:
- Strengthening ECOWAS security architecture
- Rapid response to threats against constitutional order
- Deepened military collaboration with neighbouring states
- Protection of civilian lives and infrastructure
This approach is reshaping Nigeria’s image from a passive observer to a decisive defender of democracy in West Africa.
Conclusion: Leadership in Action
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s praise of the Nigerian military is more than a ceremonial gesture — it is recognition of a historic act of regional leadership. By helping to foil the attempted coup in Benin, Nigeria has once again proven it stands firmly on the side of democracy, peace, and lawful governance.
Under Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is not just protecting its own borders — it is protecting the future of democracy in West Africa.
References
- Nigerian presidency confirms military intervention in Benin Daily Sun
- NAN report on Tinubu hailing the military Nan News
- The Guardian report on Benin failed coup The Guardian
- The Star report on Tinubu praising the military
