The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has ordered the immediate deployment of elements of its regional Standby Force to the Republic of Benin.
The directive, announced in a statement issued on Sunday, is aimed at strengthening security in the country amid rising concerns over terrorist threats and cross-border instability linked to the Sahel region.
The Commission said the action follows consultations among members of the Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government, and is in line with its conflict-prevention mandate.
“Pursuant to the provisions of relevant ECOWAS instruments, in particular Article 25(e) of the 1999 Protocol Relating to the Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security,” the Commission said.
“The Chair of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government has ordered the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin with immediate effect.”
ECOWAS said the regional force will draw personnel from four member states, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, and will operate strictly to reinforce constitutional governance.
“The Regional Force shall be made up of troops from the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, and Republic of Ghana,” the statement noted.
According to the Commission, the troops are being sent to help the government in Cotonou stabilise the situation and defend national institutions following the failed mutiny.
“The Force shall support the Government and the Republican Army of Benin to preserve constitutional order and the territorial integrity of the Republic of Benin,” It added.
The communiqué did not disclose details regarding the size, scope, or duration of the deployment.
The move underscores ECOWAS’ ongoing commitment to assisting member states grappling with security challenges and maintaining regional stability.
