President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the approval of the Senate to deploy Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin as part of a regional peace support operation.
The request was transmitted to the upper chamber on Tuesday and read during plenary for immediate legislative action.
According to the communication, the proposed deployment follows a direct request from President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic after the recent failed coup attempt in the country.
The intervention is expected to reinforce stability efforts and strengthen security coordination in line with regional protocols.
The President noted that the action aligns with the obligations of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which mandates member states to provide support during unconstitutional disruptions or threats to democratic governance within the bloc.
Nigeria currently serves as a key contributor to ECOWAS peace and security operations.
Tinubu further stated that the request complies with Section 5(4) of the Constitution, which requires presidential consultation with the National Defence Council and subsequent approval of the National Assembly before deploying armed forces for external missions.
The Senate referred the request to the Committee of the Whole for accelerated consideration, signalling urgency given recent developments in Benin Republic.
Lawmakers are expected to review the legal, operational and financial implications before granting final approval.
Nigeria had earlier provided aerial support to assist Benin’s authorities immediately after the attempted coup, marking the first phase of regional intervention.
The proposed troop deployment is anticipated to serve as an extension of that support and reinforce ECOWAS’ position against unconstitutional changes of government in West Africa.
Investors King will continue to monitor legislative deliberations and provide updates as the Senate concludes its review.
