Nigeria has deployed fighter aircraft to the Benin Republic following the military coup that removed President Patrice Talon from power on Sunday, security sources have confirmed.
The aircraft, which departed from Lagos earlier in the day, was sighted operating within Beninese airspace as Nigeria intensified aerial surveillance over its neighbour in response to the unfolding political crisis.
According to The Guardian, security officials said the move is part of Nigeria’s precautionary strategy to monitor regional security threats and protect its national interests amid growing uncertainty in Cotonou. A senior security source told Zagazola Makama that the deployment is not an attack mission but a strategic assessment operation.
“The aircraft have already arrived in Benin Republic. Nigeria is closely monitoring developments and evaluating potential risks,” he said.
The coup, led by Lt. Pascal Tigri, saw the dissolution of state institutions and the takeover of government by the self-styled Military Committee for Rebuilding. The junta has suspended the November 2025 constitution, dissolved all political structures, halted political party activities, and ordered the closure of Benin’s land, sea, and air borders until further notice.
Nigeria shares an extensive and porous border with Benin, making the instability in Cotonou a direct security concern for Abuja.
