Nigeria has activated aerial surveillance operations over Benin Republic following reports of a military takeover that allegedly removed President Patrice Talon from power on Sunday, multiple security sources have disclosed.
Sources confirmed that fighter aircraft departed from Lagos and were later observed operating within Benin’s airspace as Nigeria moved to closely track the rapidly unfolding situation in its western neighbour. According to senior officials, the deployment is part of early precautionary measures designed to assess security implications for Nigeria and the wider region.
“This is not an offensive mission. The aircraft arrived in Benin Republic to provide real-time intelligence. Nigeria is monitoring events minute by minute and weighing possible risks,” a top security source explained.
Reports emerging from Cotonou indicated that the alleged coup was led by Lt. Pascal Tigri, who was said to have declared the dissolution of all state institutions and assumed full control. A group calling itself the Military Committee for Rebuilding reportedly suspended the November 2025 Constitution, halted political party operations and ordered the closure of all borders.
Given Nigeria’s extensive and largely porous boundary with Benin Republic, developments in the country are viewed in Abuja as a matter of immediate security concern.
Although the Nigerian government had yet to issue an official response as of press time, military officials said surveillance flights would continue until the situation becomes more clearly defined.
