Seven Beninese nationals have received salon starter kits after completing a three-month vocational skills acquisition programme organised by Nigerian Army troops deployed on a peace support mission in the Republic of Benin under Operation Atileyin Alafia II (OPAA II).
The empowerment initiative, held at the OPAA II Vocational Training Centre in Togbin Camp, Cotonou, forms part of the operation’s Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities aimed at promoting self-reliance, improving livelihoods and strengthening relations between the Nigerian Army and host communities.
Addressing guests at the graduation ceremony, the Commanding Officer of OPAA II, Lieutenant Colonel AA Ikoro, said the programme aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy, which places emphasis on improving the welfare of host communities through impactful civil-military cooperation projects.
He explained that the training commenced in April 2026 at the start of the mission in the Republic of Benin, with 10 participants—five males and five females—enrolled for training in salon and beauty services delivered by Nigerian Army personnel.
Lieutenant Colonel Ikoro disclosed that although 10 beneficiaries began the programme, seven successfully completed it, attributing their success to commitment, discipline and dedication throughout the training.
Representing the Commandant of the Presidential Guard of the Republic of Benin, Major Alizannd Gratien praised the Nigerian Army and troops of Operation Atileyin Alafia II for their continued support and valuable contributions to the Republic of Benin. He urged the beneficiaries to utilise the skills acquired to establish sustainable livelihoods and contribute to the economic development of their communities.
The Nigerian Defence Attaché to the Republic of Benin, Colonel SY Yahaya, congratulated the graduands and commended the troops for their professionalism, discipline and exemplary conduct, noting that their performance had contributed to the successful execution of the mission while enhancing Nigeria’s reputation in the Republic of Benin.
Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Ambassador Mopelola Adeola Ibrahim, also applauded the troops for their courage, discipline and professionalism, stating that their exemplary service had earned Nigeria the admiration and respect of the Beninese government and its people.
She described the empowerment initiative as a testament to the enduring friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, saying it would have a lasting socio-economic impact on the beneficiaries and their communities.
While presenting certificates and salon starter kits to the seven graduands, Ambassador Ibrahim encouraged them to make productive use of the equipment to establish viable businesses and become self-reliant. She also expressed appreciation to the troops for their dedicated service and wished them success as they return to their respective units.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Gossou Celestin thanked the Nigerian Army, the Government and people of Nigeria, and the leadership of Operation Atileyin Alafia II for what he described as a life-changing opportunity.
He said the programme had equipped the beneficiaries with practical vocational skills and the tools needed to build sustainable livelihoods, pledging that they would apply the knowledge acquired to improve their lives and contribute positively to their communities.
The empowerment programme underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to promoting self-reliance through community-focused initiatives while strengthening goodwill and bilateral relations between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
