The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Tuesday applauded Nigeria for its prompt and decisive role in helping to quell the recent attempted coup in the Republic of Benin, describing the intervention as vital to safeguarding democracy in the sub-region. Nigeria received the commendation during the opening of the 55th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council (MSC) at the ministerial level, held in Abuja.
Delegates from across West Africa rose in a standing ovation as ECOWAS Commission President, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, praised the country for what he called a courageous and timely action. Touray highlighted Nigeria’s long-standing leadership in regional peacekeeping, noting that its rapid response to the crisis in Benin helped prevent the situation from deteriorating into broader instability.
He emphasized that the move reaffirmed ECOWAS’ collective commitment to constitutional governance and its zero-tolerance stance on unconstitutional changes of government. “Nigeria’s swift intervention was instrumental in restoring calm and demonstrating that this region will not allow democracy to be undermined,” Touray said, acknowledging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.
Delegates at the session echoed Touray’s remarks, stressing that Nigeria’s action sent a strong message to would-be coup plotters across the sub-region. They also commended the country’s cooperation with other ECOWAS member states in securing Benin’s political stability. The meeting, which brought together ministers responsible for foreign affairs, defence, and security from across West Africa, focused on strengthening regional mechanisms for conflict prevention and swift response to emerging threats.
Nigeria’s recognition comes amid renewed efforts by ECOWAS to enhance collective security and reinforce democratic norms across the region, particularly at a time when several member states are battling coup-related instability. As the session continues, leaders are expected to outline further strategies for peace, security, and good governance in West Africa.
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