More than 560 personnel are participating in a large-scale military manoeuvre led by Benin’s National Guard, spanning the departments of Zou, Mono, and Couffo to assess readiness in the face of potential terrorist infiltration of the country’s south.
The operation, dubbed “Bouclier” (Shield), aims to bolster the National Guard’s counter-terrorism capabilities, according to a government statement seen by APA.
Launched on Monday, 30 June 2025, under the command of Colonel Faïzou Gomina, the exercise is taking place across key southern regions of the country. Lieutenant-Colonel Adamassou Valère, Director of Exercises, noted that the operation responds to “persistent threats of terrorist attacks in the north and the risk of their spread toward the south.”
The drill is designed to evaluate the Guard’s ability to mobilise tactical forces for anti-terror operations while continuing routine duties. It follows previous training missions conducted in Pira, Bassila, Djakotomey, Lalo, and Ouessé.
According to Colonel Gomina, Chief of Staff of the National Guard, the exercise will ensure that troops are “better prepared before deployment in operational zones.”
The operation features simulated emergency responses to terrorist incidents, including the neutralisation of armed threats and the securing of public areas.
Key sites involved in the operation include the Ladji River Brigade in Cotonou for water rescue drills, the Armed Forces’ climbing facility in Dassa, and the obstacle course at the Ouassa military camp.
Although led by the National Guard, “Bouclier” also benefits from air support provided by the air force and intelligence from the republican police. Military experts from the army and navy are also contributing to troop evaluations.
The operation will culminate on 3–4 July with a civil-military medical campaign, offering treatment for various ailments and distributing essential medicines, alongside a VIP day.
This initiative aligns with the broader security strategy of General Fructueux Gbaguidi, Chief of the General Staff of the Beninese armed forces, aimed at reinforcing the national guard’s role amid growing regional security challenges.
ARD/te/sf/lb/as/APA