The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has commended President Bola Tinubu for taking decisive action to deploy military assets and halt the attempted coup in Benin Republic, describing it as a move in Nigeria’s best security interest.
In a statement on Monday, NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, noted that a successful coup in Benin could have posed serious security threats for Nigeria, particularly given the presence of militants and hostile groups in the Sahel region.
“By intervening, the President not only supported democracy in the subregion but also acted in the strategic interest of Nigeria and West Africa,” the statement said. “With the Sahel in turmoil and parts of Benin, especially the W-forest, already infested by militants, a successful coup would have had devastating consequences for our country, given our shared borders with Benin.”
The NGF praised both the President and the Nigerian military for restoring stability and constitutional rule in Benin in a timely manner.
“It is our position that democracy, despite its challenges, remains the most effective form of government for regional peace, stability, and development,” the Forum added. “Nigeria’s swift intervention under the invitation of Benin Republic reinforces ECOWAS’ collective security efforts and mitigates potential threats to cities such as Porto Novo, Cotonou, and Parakou, which could directly impact Nigeria.”