Nigerian Army Contingent Trains, Empowers 7 Beninese Youths in Cotonou
The Nigerian Army troops deployed on a peace support mission in the Republic of Benin under Operation Atileyin Alafia II (OPAA II) have strengthened civil-military relations by empowering seven Beninese beneficiaries with salon starter kits after completing a three-month vocational skills acquisition programme in Cotonou.
The empowerment programme was held at the OPAA II Vocational Training Centre, Togbin Camp, Cotonou, where the beneficiaries also received certificates of completion.
In his welcome remarks, the Commanding Officer, OPAA II, Lt. Col. AA Ikoro, said the initiative was consistent with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy, which prioritises the welfare of host communities through impactful Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities.
Ikoro disclosed that the training commenced in April 2026, shortly after the beginning of the Nigerian Army’s mission in Benin Republic.
He said 10 beneficiaries, comprising five males and five females, were initially enrolled in the programme and trained by Nigerian Army personnel in salon and beauty services.
According to him, seven participants successfully completed the training, attributing their graduation to their commitment, discipline and dedication.
The Representative of the Commandant, Presidential Guard of the Republic of Benin, Major Alizannd Gratien, expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army, the OPAA II Commanding Officer and the troops for their support and contributions to Benin Republic.
Gratien urged the beneficiaries to utilise the skills acquired to improve their livelihoods, achieve self-reliance and contribute to the socio-economic development of their communities.
Also speaking, the Nigerian Defence Attaché to Benin Republic, Col. SY Yahaya, congratulated the seven beneficiaries and described them as winners for successfully completing the programme.
Yahaya commended the OPAA II troops for their professionalism, discipline and exemplary conduct throughout the mission, noting that their performance had contributed to the successful execution of the operation and enhanced Nigeria’s image in Benin Republic.
The Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic and Special Guest of Honour, Ambassador Mopelola Adeola Ibrahim, also commended the troops for their courage, professionalism and exemplary conduct.
Ibrahim said the troops’ performance had earned Nigeria the admiration and respect of the Beninese government and people, while reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation as a dependable partner in promoting regional peace, stability and democratic governance.
She described the empowerment programme as a reflection of the enduring friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and Benin Republic.
While presenting the starter kits and certificates to the beneficiaries, the ambassador said the initiative would have a lasting socio-economic impact on the beneficiaries and their communities.
She urged the graduands to make productive use of the equipment to establish sustainable livelihoods, while appreciating the troops for their selfless service.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Gossou Celestin expressed appreciation to the OPAA II Commanding Officer, the Nigerian Army and the government and people of Nigeria for the initiative.
Celestin described the programme as a rare opportunity that provided the beneficiaries with valuable vocational skills and starter kits to establish sustainable livelihoods.
The beneficiaries pledged to use the empowerment packages responsibly and apply their newly acquired skills to improve their livelihoods and contribute positively to their communities.
The ceremony marked another milestone in OPAA II’s CIMIC activities and underscored the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening community relations, promoting bilateral cooperation and supporting the socio-economic well-being of host communities in Benin Republic.
By TimesNG