Tinubu seeks Senate approval to deploy Nigerian troops to Benin Republic

President Bola Tinubu has asked the Senate to authorise the deployment of Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin as part of a broader regional security effort aimed at stabilising West Africa.

The request was conveyed in a formal letter addressed to the upper chamber and read aloud by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Tuesday’s plenary session in Abuja, December 9, 2025.

According to the letter, the proposed deployment forms part of a coordinated initiative under regional security frameworks, with Nigeria expected to contribute personnel to strengthen joint operations in response to emerging threats in the sub-region.

Tinubu explained that the mission is designed to support collective defence arrangements, assist in crisis management, and reinforce collaborative measures adopted by West African leaders in the wake of escalating instability.

Senators are expected to deliberate on the request in the coming days, as the National Assembly’s approval is required for the deployment of Nigerian armed forces outside the country.