Benin Coup: Governors Laud Tinubu for Swift Military Intervention to Protect Regional Security

Story: written by Daniel December 9,2025
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has commended President Bola Tinubu for deploying military forces to halt and reverse the recent coup attempt in the Benin Republic, describing the move as critical for Nigeria’s national and regional security.

In a statement on Monday, NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said the intervention prevented potential security threats from spilling over into Nigeria. He noted that militants and hostile groups in the Sahel could have exploited the political crisis to further destabilise the region.

The statement read:
“Apart from defending democracy in the subregion, the President acted in Nigeria’s best interest. With the Sahel in turmoil and parts of Benin, particularly the W-forest, already infested by militants, a successful coup would have posed severe security risks to our nation, given our proximity to Benin, which shares borders with several Nigerian states.”

The NGF praised both the President and the Nigerian military for their timely response, which helped restore constitutional rule and stability in Benin.

“It is our firm view that democracy, despite its challenges, remains the most effective system of governance for ensuring peace, stability, and development across the region,” the statement added.

The Forum further emphasized that Nigeria’s prompt action, taken at the invitation of Benin authorities, reinforces ECOWAS’ collective security efforts. “Security threats in cities like Porto Novo, Cotonou, or Parakou pose direct risks to Nigeria. President Tinubu’s decisive measures serve as an effective safeguard against such threats,” the NGF said.