Senate President Godswill Akpabio announcing Senate approval for Nigerian troop deployment to Benin during plenary session.
The Nigerian Senate has formally approved President Bola Tinubu’s request to send troops to the Republic of Benin, following an attempted military takeover in the neighbouring country over the weekend.
The endorsement was announced on Tuesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary, after the president’s request was reviewed in the Committee of the Whole under Section 5, Part II of the Constitution. Lawmakers voted unanimously, granting parliamentary authorization for Nigeria’s participation in the regional security operation.
Akpabio described the approval as timely and critical, highlighting that instability in one West African country could threaten the wider region. “An injury to one is an injury to all,” he said, reiterating Nigeria’s commitment under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) framework.
In his letter to the Senate, President Tinubu noted that Nigeria holds a historic responsibility to assist Benin under ECOWAS security arrangements. He emphasized that the situation requires urgent external intervention to prevent further deterioration.
The Senate is set to immediately forward formal approval to the president, clearing the way for Nigerian forces to support efforts in restoring stability and peace in Benin.
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