‘They Made Us Proud’ – Tinubu Applauds Nigerian Military for Defending Benin Republic’s Democracy

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the courage and swift intervention of Nigeria’s military forces after they responded immediately to an emergency request from the Government of Benin Republic to protect its 35-year-old democratic system from an attempted coup.

The commendation was revealed in an official statement released on Sunday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. According to the statement, the President acknowledged the professionalism and rapid response displayed by the Nigerian Armed Forces during the early-morning operation.

Tinubu explained that the military acted based on two formal requests made by the Benin Republic authorities. Following the first request, he directed the Nigerian Air Force to deploy fighter aircraft into Benin Republic to take control of the airspace and neutralize coup plotters who had taken over the National Television station and regrouped within a military facility.

The President emphasized that Nigeria, as a nation committed to regional stability, could not ignore any threat to democracy within the West African neighbourhood. He expressed satisfaction that the coordinated operation helped prevent the overthrow of a democratically elected government, demonstrating Nigeria’s leadership role within the region.

Tinubu applauded the bravery and professionalism of the Nigerian soldiers who carried out the assignment with precision and discipline. He noted that their actions reaffirmed the country’s commitment to safeguarding democratic institutions across West Africa.

The President also highlighted the importance of protecting constitutional rule, stressing that democracy in the region must not be undermined by any group trying to seize power through force. He further maintained that the success of the operation proved that Nigeria and its neighbours remain united in defending peace, stability, and democratic governance.