The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has praised President Bola Tinubu for his prompt military intervention in the Benin Republic after a failed coup attempt, describing the move as crucial for Nigeria’s security and the stability of the West African region.
In a statement released on Monday, NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said the consequences of a successful coup in Benin could have been severe for Nigeria. He explained that militants and other dangerous groups operating in the Sahel might have used the chaos to further destabilise the country—an outcome that would directly affect Nigeria because of their shared borders.
“Apart from standing up for democracy, the President acted in the best interest of Nigeria and West Africa,” AbdulRazaq said. He noted that with insecurity already worsening across the Sahel, the political collapse of Benin could have spilled into Nigeria, especially through regions like the W-forest, where militants are already active.
He stressed that democracy, despite its challenges, remains the best path to peace and development in the region. According to him, Nigeria’s quick response helped prevent instability from spreading.
The Forum also highlighted the wider regional importance of Nigeria’s involvement. It explained that any threats to key Beninese cities like Porto Novo, Cotonou, or Parakou pose direct risks to Nigeria. “The President’s firm action is an effective check to this,” the statement added.
The attempted coup occurred on December 7, 2025, when a group of soldiers calling themselves the “Military Committee for Refoundation” announced on national television that President Patrice Talon had been removed. They targeted the president’s residence and attempted to seize military bases, but loyal forces quickly regained control.
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ECOWAS responded by deploying its standby force—made up of troops from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana—to support Benin in restoring order and protecting its constitutional government.
The NGF applauded Tinubu’s decision to send Nigerian fighter jets and ground troops, saying it not only stabilised Benin but also demonstrated Nigeria’s leadership role in the region. The intervention, the Forum noted, sends a clear message that coups in West Africa will not be tolerated.
The governors concluded by commending Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces for their swift and effective action, emphasising that it prevented a crisis that could have endangered Nigeria’s security and economic well-being.
