Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have pledged to intensify their defense collaboration, focusing on real-time intelligence sharing to combat terrorism, piracy, and illegal activities across their shared borders. This pact was solidified during a three-day official visit to Cotonou by Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, which ended this past Thursday.
Leah Katung-Babatunde, the minister’s media adviser, stated that the agreement was finalized alongside Benin’s Minister of National Defence, Gildas Agonkan. Both parties committed to stabilizing regional borders and protecting the Gulf of Guinea. General Musa emphasized that integrating security frameworks is essential to dismantling transnational criminal networks and insurgent groups. He urged Benin to assist in eliminating safe havens for violent extremists, noting that Nigeria remains steadfast in its fight against banditry and terrorism.
During the trip, General Musa reviewed Nigerian forces serving under Operation ATILEYIN ALAFIA II in Togbin, promising that the government will continue to prioritize their welfare. Furthermore, the delegation explored the Centre for Post Conflict Demining and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Operations and the Glo-Djigbe Industrial Zone to foster local capacity building. The visit also included diplomatic discussions with the Nigerian Ambassador to Benin, Mopelola Ibrahim, reinforcing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s focus on regional security and military support.
