RismadarVoice Reporters
May 30, 2026
Troops of Operation ATILEHIN ALAFIA II (OPAA II) deployed in the Republic of Benin have been commended for their professionalism and positive representation of Nigeria as they marked Eid-el-Kabir celebrations with a special luncheon on 28 May 2026.
The event, held under the directive of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Wahid Shaibu, had in attendance Nigeria’s Head of Mission to the Benin Republic, Ambassador Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim, who praised the troops for their discipline, conduct, and role in strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Benin.
Ambassador Adeola-Ibrahim said the personnel had continued to project the image of the Nigerian Army positively within the multinational operational environment, noting that their service reflects Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace and cooperation. She also commended the Army leadership for prioritising troop welfare and donated a cow to the soldiers in celebration of the festival.
The Chief of Army Staff, in a goodwill message delivered through the Nigerian Defence Attaché to the Benin Republic, Col. S.A. Yahaya, congratulated the troops and urged them to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to their operational mandate. He assured them of continued support for their welfare and operational effectiveness.
Col. Yahaya described the troops’ conduct as exemplary, adding that their professionalism has enhanced Nigeria’s military reputation in the sub-region. He conveyed the COAS’s appreciation for their sacrifices while serving in a multinational environment.
Earlier, the Commanding Officer of OPAA II, Lt. Col. A.A. Ikoro, said the gathering reflected the Nigerian Army’s commitment to troop morale and cohesion. He thanked the Chief of Army Staff for sustained support and reaffirmed the unit’s readiness to accomplish its mission.
The Eid celebration featured goodwill messages, entertainment, group photographs, and shared meals among troops and guests in an atmosphere of camaraderie and cultural unity. Nigerian Envoy, Army Leadership Laud OPAA II Troops in Benin Republic During Eid Celebration
Troops of Operation ATILEHIN ALAFIA II (OPAA II) deployed in the Republic of Benin have been commended for their professionalism and positive representation of Nigeria as they marked Eid-el-Kabir celebrations with a special luncheon on 28 May 2026.
The event, held under the directive of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Wahid Shaibu, had in attendance Nigeria’s Head of Mission to the Benin Republic, Ambassador Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim, who praised the troops for their discipline, conduct, and role in strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Benin.
Ambassador Adeola-Ibrahim said the personnel had continued to project the image of the Nigerian Army positively within the multinational operational environment, noting that their service reflects Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace and cooperation. She also commended the Army leadership for prioritising troop welfare and donated a cow to the soldiers in celebration of the festival.
The Chief of Army Staff, in a goodwill message delivered through the Nigerian Defence Attaché to the Benin Republic, Col. S.A. Yahaya, congratulated the troops and urged them to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to their operational mandate. He assured them of continued support for their welfare and operational effectiveness.
Col. Yahaya described the troops’ conduct as exemplary, adding that their professionalism has enhanced Nigeria’s military reputation in the sub-region. He conveyed the COAS’s appreciation for their sacrifices while serving in a multinational environment.
Earlier, the Commanding Officer of OPAA II, Lt. Col. A.A. Ikoro, said the gathering reflected the Nigerian Army’s commitment to troop morale and cohesion.
