Benin President Patrice Talon met with a Nigerian army delegation on Wednesday following a failed coup attempt earlier in the month. The encounter underscores deepening military ties between the neighboring nations after Nigeria’s pivotal role in quashing the rebellion. This development comes amid heightened regional security concerns in West Africa.
The coup unfolded on December 7, 2025, when rebellious soldiers from the Benin Armed Forces, led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, seized the national television station in Cotonou around 02:10 WAT. The mutineers announced the overthrow of President Talon, the dissolution of the government, and the suspension of state institutions, citing worsening security in northern Benin and neglect of fallen comrades. Loyalist forces, backed by Nigerian fighter jets and ground troops dispatched at Talon’s request, swiftly countered the plot, with airstrikes helping dislodge plotters from the TV station and a military base.
President Talon addressed the nation that evening, declaring the situation “completely under control” after loyal soldiers “eliminated the last remnants of resistance held by the mutineers.”
He emphasized, “This dedication and mobilization allowed us to defeat these opportunists and avert catastrophe for our nation. This betrayal will not go unpunished,” while expressing condolences to victims and urging citizens to resume activities peacefully. Government spokesperson Wilfried Leandre Houngbedji confirmed 14 individuals, mostly active-duty soldiers, were detained, though Tigri’s capture remains unclear.
The short-lived coup resulted in casualties on both government and mutineer sides, including one civilian, with explosions near Talon’s residence heightening public fears of instability akin to Niger and Burkina Faso.
Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu confirmed deploying jets and troops following two requests from Talon, including one for “immediate Nigerian air support,” praising his military as a “defender of constitutional order.” United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attempt, warning it would “further threaten the stability of the region.”
The Wednesday meeting with Nigerian officers highlights ongoing collaboration, as Talon’s cabinet had earlier noted Nigerian airstrikes’ crucial role in thwarting the bid. Two high-ranking Beninese officials abducted during the chaos were freed by Monday. The incident precedes Talon’s second term end and the April 2026 election, raising stakes for governance amid ECOWAS standby force deployment.
