The Nigerian Air Force has conducted a series of coordinated precision airstr*kes targeting members of the recently foiled coup attempt in the Benin Republic, according to information released by security analyst Zagazola Makama.
Makama, citing credible security sources, reported that the operation focused on coup elements attempting to escape Cotonou in armoured vehicles after loyalist forces moved quickly to suppress the uprising. Nigerian fghter jets reportedly carried out several well-executed strkes within Benin’s airspace over a concentrated 30-minute mission window.
Sources described the intervention as “meticulously planned,” explaining that its primary goals were to halt the fleeing faction, prevent their regrouping, and support efforts to restore order in collaboration with regional partners.
Officials also stressed that the airstr*kes were conducted with the full authorization of Beninese authorities and in line with international protocols designed to minimize collateral damage while maintaining operational precision.
The intervention followed the failed coup attempt led by Lt. Pascal Tigri, who briefly attempted to dissolve state institutions and assume control of Benin’s military command structure. After loyalist forces regained control, several members of Tigri’s faction attempted to flee southward, prompting Nigeria’s rapid aerial response.
A senior military official reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace, stating that the Air Force remains dedicated to preventing instability that could spill across borders and threaten neighbouring countries.
According to Makama, the operation represents one of Nigeria’s most decisive cross-border actions in recent West African history and underscores the country’s readiness to counter threats that endanger regional stability.
Authorities in both Nigeria and Benin are currently assessing the full impact of the str*kes while coordinating follow-up operations to track and apprehend any remaining coup participants.
