Defence Minister Commends Nigerian Troops on Peace Mission in Benin

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has praised Nigerian Army troops deployed on the Peace Support Mission in the Republic of Benin under Operation ATILEYIN ALAFIA II (OPAA II) for their professionalism, discipline and dedication to regional peace and security.

General Musa gave the commendation during a morale-boosting visit to the troops at Camp Togbin in Cotonou, where he lauded their exemplary conduct, saying they had continued to project Nigeria's image positively through their outstanding performance on the mission.

Addressing the troops, the minister expressed satisfaction with their achievements, describing their service as a reflection of the resilience, discipline and professionalism for which the Nigerian Armed Forces are renowned.

He also conveyed the goodwill message of President Bola Tinubu who, according to him, is pleased with the troops' exceptional performance and appreciates their sacrifices in promoting peace and strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.

General Musa reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to strengthening defence cooperation with the Republic of Benin, stressing that both countries would continue to work closely to tackle criminal elements operating along their shared borders.

He noted that sustained military collaboration remained essential to improving border security and ensuring lasting peace and stability across the sub-region.

The minister further urged the troops to remain steadfast in upholding the core values of the Nigerian Army wherever they are deployed, while wishing them a safe return to Nigeria upon the successful completion of their peace support mission.

The visit concluded with the presentation of a commemorative souvenir to the Minister by the Commanding Officer of Operation ATILEYIN ALAFIA II, Lieutenant Colonel A.A. Ikoro, in appreciation of his visit, encouragement and continued support for the troops.