December 7, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
Nigeria has deployed fighter aircraft to the Benin Republic following a military coup that toppled President Patrice Talon on Sunday, according to credible security sources.
The aircraft, which departed from Lagos earlier in the day, were sighted operating within Beninese airspace as the Nigerian military intensified surveillance over the unfolding political situation in its western neighbour.
Security officials told Zagazola Makama that the move is part of Nigeria’s precautionary measures aimed at evaluating regional security implications and safeguarding national interests amid rising uncertainty in Cotonou.
“The aircraft have already arrived in Benin Republic. Nigeria is closely monitoring developments and evaluating potential risks,” a senior security official said. He emphasized that the deployment is not offensive in nature but a strategic response to the sudden change of government.
The coup, led by Lt. Pascal Tigri, resulted in the dissolution of state institutions and the suspension of Benin’s November 2025 constitution. In a broadcast, the coup leaders—under the banner of the Military Committee for Rebuilding—announced that political party activities have been halted, and the country’s land, sea, and air borders closed until further notice.
The development adds to the growing wave of unconstitutional power seizures across West Africa, heightening concerns about regional stability and raising alarms in neighbouring countries.
Nigeria shares a long and porous border with Benin, making political instability in the country a direct security concern for Abuja.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian government has not issued an official statement, but military sources said surveillance will continue “until the situation becomes clearer.”
