By Abdullahi M. Gulloma
Abuja
President Boni Yayi of the Republic of Benin said yesterday that his country was ready to contribute 800 men to join Nigeria and other neighbouring countries in the fight against terrorism.
Addressing State House correspondents after bilateral talks with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Yayi said the men, who were already battle ready, were only waiting for deployment
He said his country would always remain on the side of Nigeria in the fight against terrorism and corruption.
While lauding the leadership style of Buhari, Yayi promised to always cooperate with Nigeria.
“President Buhari took over the mantle of government at a time terrorism occasioned by the activities of Boko Haram is high. To fight terrorism, Benin is ready to send about 800 men to join the men that are already prepared to fight terrorism. The team is battle ready for deployment.
“The will power is there and Benin is committed to deploying the men. Benin will always remain on the side of Nigeria in its trying times. The sub-region is also going through serious problems of development. Fighting Boko Haram is becoming difficult because OPEC countries are going through oil crises. We will always stand beside Buhari in his fight against corruption.”
In his response, Buhari said the military operation in the north-east was being reduced to the remotest parts of the zone.
He said for security and economic reasons, it is in Nigeria’s interest that the country is in good terms with its neighbours.
He said Nigerian officials were currently busy planning a hitch-free event.
The President also spoke on the security in the Gulf of Guinea from Senegal to Angola, saying improved security in the area would check oil theft which had “Nigeria as a major casualty.”