RismadarVoice Reporters
August 4, 2026
The Nigerian Army has strengthened civil-military relations in the Republic of Benin by empowering seven Beninese citizens with salon starter kits after they completed a three-month vocational skills acquisition programme under Operation Atileyin Alafia II (OPAA II).
The empowerment ceremony was held at the OPAA II Vocational Training Centre, Togbin Camp, Cotonou, as part of the Nigerian Army’s Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) initiatives aimed at improving the socio-economic well-being of host communities.
Speaking at the event, the Commanding Officer of OPAA II, Lieutenant Colonel A.A. Ikoro, said the programme was in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy, which prioritises the welfare of host communities through impactful civil-military cooperation projects.
He disclosed that the vocational training began in April 2026 with 10 participants—five males and five females—receiving practical instruction in salon and beauty services from Nigerian Army personnel.
According to him, seven trainees completed the programme, attributing their success to commitment, discipline and dedication throughout the training period.
Representing the Commandant of the Presidential Guard of the Republic of Benin, Major Alizannd Gratien commended the Nigerian Army for its continued support and valuable contributions to the Republic of Benin.
He urged the beneficiaries to utilise the acquired skills and starter kits to become self-reliant, improve their livelihoods and contribute to the socio-economic development of their communities.
Also speaking, the Nigerian Defence Attaché to the Republic of Benin, Colonel S.Y. Yahaya, congratulated the graduates and praised the troops of Operation Atileyin Alafia II for their professionalism, discipline and exemplary conduct, noting that their performance had further enhanced Nigeria’s image in the neighbouring country.
Delivering her remarks, Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Ambassador Mopelola Adeola Ibrahim, lauded the troops for their courage, professionalism and commitment to regional peace and cooperation.
She said the soldiers had earned the admiration and respect of the Government and people of Benin while reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation as a dependable partner in promoting regional peace, stability and democratic governance.
The ambassador described the empowerment programme as another symbol of the enduring friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
She presented certificates and salon starter kits to the seven beneficiaries and encouraged them to use the empowerment packages to establish sustainable businesses and improve their standard of living.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr Gossou Celestin expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army and the Government of Nigeria for what he described as a life-changing initiative.
He said the training had equipped them with valuable vocational skills and the tools needed to become economically independent, pledging that the beneficiaries would put the knowledge and starter kits to productive use.
The empowerment programme marks another milestone in Operation Atileyin Alafia II’s Civil-Military Cooperation efforts and underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting community development in the Republic of Benin.
