Nigeria seeks stronger defence ties with Benin, Niger as Sahel security threat grows

Nigeria is strengthening military cooperation with Benin and Niger as militia groups expand southward from the Sahel, according to the country's Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.

Speaking to AFP, Musa said Nigeria is establishing a new joint security zone along its borders with Benin and Niger to counter the movement of militants, particularly the Al-Qaeda-linked Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), which he said is attempting to infiltrate Nigeria through Benin from Burkina Faso.

Musa said the initiative, which is still under development, is intended to improve cross-border coordination and give security forces greater operational flexibility in tackling armed groups operating across the region.

He added that military cooperation with neighbouring countries has continued despite political differences, noting that he plans to visit Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger in the coming months to strengthen regional security collaboration.

The renewed push comes as Nigeria faces an evolving security landscape, with extremist violence spreading beyond its long-standing northeastern insurgency.

Musa also warned that illegal mining is helping to finance militant groups operating in mineral-rich areas.

With Nigeria's presidential election approaching, Musa acknowledged concerns that insecurity could disrupt voting in some regions but said security agencies are working to ensure citizens can participate in the polls safely.