President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday formally requested the approval of the Senate for the deployment of Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin for a peacekeeping mission.
In his letter to the upper chamber, President Tinubu explained that the deployment follows a direct request for assistance from President Patrice Talon, after the failed coup attempt in the West African country.
He noted that Nigeria’s support is necessary to stabilize Benin and safeguard democratic governance in line with the security protocol of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The President further stated that the action aligns with Section 30 (5) of the Nigerian Constitution and was undertaken after due consultation with the National Defence Council.
The Senate subsequently referred the request to the Committee of the Whole for immediate deliberation and possible approval.
Prior to this request, Nigeria had already provided air support as part of the intervention measures taken following the attempted unconstitutional takeover in Benin Republic.
