The Senate has agreed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request for Nigerian troops to join a regional effort in Benin Republic aimed at safeguarding democratic institutions and preventing any attempt to seize power illegally.
Gatekeepers News reports that the approval came on Tuesday after Senate President Godswill Akpabio read the president’s formal message to the chamber.
Soon after the letter was presented, senators moved into a closed committee session to examine the request in detail. During the discussion, lawmakers reviewed the wider security and humanitarian risks linked to rising tension in Benin, including the fear of people fleeing into Nigeria and the effect this could have on border communities already under pressure.
They also considered the importance of acting early to support stability in the region. Several senators noted that a quick and coordinated response could discourage groups trying to undermine democracy in West Africa.
After the deliberations, the committee voted in favour of the deployment. When the plenary resumed, Akpabio confirmed that the chamber accepted the committee’s report by voice vote. A final vote followed, with most senators answering “aye,” giving full approval for Nigerian armed forces to be sent to Benin Republic.
Speaking later, Akpabio said the Senate believed the request aligned with Nigeria’s national interest and commitment to regional peace.
He said, “We believe the president has taken the right step. He acted not just in the best interest of Benin Republic, but in the interest of Nigeria.”
“This action protects our borders, prevents criminality, and upholds democracy in West Africa. A duty to one is a duty to all.”
Akpabio added that the Senate’s resolution would be forwarded to the president immediately so the mission could begin.
