Nigeria, Benin Republic agree on joint action to curb cross-border crimes
Nigeria and Benin Republic Enhance Defense Cooperation
ABUJA — Nigeria and the Benin Republic have agreed to strengthen defense collaboration and establish a system for real-time intelligence sharing to combat cross-border crime, terrorism, and piracy in West Africa.
This agreement was finalized during a three-day working visit to Cotonou by Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, which concluded on Thursday. Details of the agreement were made public in a statement issued Friday by Leah Katung-Babatunde, the minister’s special adviser on media.
The discussions took place during a meeting with the Beninese Minister of National Defence, Mr. Gildas Agonkan, alongside members of the Beninese military command. The ministers emphasized their commitment to safeguarding democratic governance, stabilizing borders, and securing the Gulf of Guinea.
Musa indicated that both nations would align their regional security frameworks to address evolving threats. They also agreed on the importance of enhancing intelligence gathering, including the establishment of real-time intelligence systems aimed at dismantling transnational criminal networks and insurgent cells before they execute operations.
Reiterating Nigeria’s firm stance against terrorism, Musa urged Benin to collaborate closely with Nigeria to eliminate safe havens for extremist groups operating along the shared borders. He stated, “Nigeria is showing no mercy to terrorists, bandits, and armed extremists. We will partner with the troops of the Republic of Benin to halt the banditry and criminal activities affecting our countries.”
As part of his visit, Musa inspected Nigerian troops deployed in Togbin, Cotonou, under Operation ATILEYIN ALAFIA II, a Peace Support Mission in Benin. He assured the troops of the Federal Government’s commitment to improving their welfare and support.
“The President is preparing many benefits for you, and we are following up to ensure you are well taken care of. We recognize the challenges you face, and we are committed to securing Nigeria,” Musa said.
Additionally, Musa and his delegation visited the Centre for Post-Conflict Demining and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Operations (CPADD) and the Glo-Djigbe Industrial Zone (GDIZ). These visits aimed to foster local capacity building in alignment with the third pillar of Musa’s defense policy: intelligence-driven and technology-enabled defense.
He noted that the discussions provided opportunities to share ideas that could enhance industry and development, consistent with ECOWAS protocols on trade and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The minister also held diplomatic discussions with Nigeria’s Ambassador to Benin, Mrs. Mopelola Ibrahim, regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to military welfare and regional peace.
