The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, says Nigeria’s rapid military support to the Benin Republic and the successful rescue of 100 abducted pupils in Niger State reflect the administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding democracy and strengthening national security.

Speaking during an interview on Arise News on Monday, Onanuga explained that Nigeria’s involvement in quelling the attempted coup in Benin followed formal appeals from President Patrice Talon. He added that the coordinated response of Nigeria’s armed forces in rescuing the schoolchildren further demonstrated the country’s growing capability to address internal security challenges.

According to him, “The events of the last two days show clearly that this government prioritizes the defence of democratic institutions, not only within Nigeria but across the West African region.”

Praising the military and other security agencies for the safe recovery of the Papiri schoolchildren, Onanuga commended the synergy between the air force and ground troops, saying their performance proves Nigeria’s readiness to confront threats against the nation.

He emphasized that the deployment of Nigerian forces to Benin was neither impulsive nor unilateral, noting that Lagos received two urgent diplomatic communications from Cotonou. “The Beninese government requested fighter jets to dislodge the coup plotters, and after that operation, they returned with another request for ground troops,” he said.

Onanuga added that the intervention fully aligned with ECOWAS protocols, especially as President Tinubu currently chairs the regional bloc. He described Tinubu as one of the strongest voices for constitutional order in West Africa since assuming office in 2023.

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“Every directive he issued regarding support for Benin Republic was consistent with his commitment to protecting democracy. This is a principle he has upheld from the start,” Onanuga noted.