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Nigeria, the African Union (AU), and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Sunday expressed disapproval of a failed military coup in Benin Republic.

They issued the condemnation as confusion and shooting incidents were reported in various areas of Cotonou after some soldiers announced they had ousted President Patrice Talon.

However, in the midst of the confusion, the Beninese government stated that its military had prevented the coup attempt after a group of soldiers in the West African country announced on national television that they had taken control.

The failed coup represents the most recent challenge to democratic governance in the area, where the armed forces have taken control in neighboring countries such as Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau in recent years.

The Nigerian Air Force stated that fighter aircraft were sent to Benin Republic as part of the ECOWAS Standby Forces (ESF).

The Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodamen, verified the operation to The Nation.

He stated, “The Nigerian Air Force has been active in the Republic of Benin following ECOWAS protocols and the ECOWAS Standby Force directive. This mission highlights Nigeria’s dedication to regional security and is being carried out in collaboration with ECOWAS and local authorities, strictly complying with international standards and regional guidelines.”

In January, Nigeria was placed as the third strongest military power in Africa, based on the 2025 Global Firepower Military Strength Index.

The study, which examines the military strength of 145 nations across the globe, ranks Nigeria below just Egypt and Algeria within Africa.

Here are ten African nations possessing the most powerful military forces

1. Egypt\xa0

Egypt is considered the most powerful military force in Africa and holds the 19th position worldwide. The Egyptian Armed Forces are composed of four primary branches: the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Air Defense Forces. The nation has made substantial investments in upgrading its military hardware and facilities, keeping a considerable stockpile of tanks, planes, and naval vessels. Egypt also receives considerable foreign military assistance, including $1.85 billion each year from the United States.

2. Algeria\xa0

Algeria is ranked second in Africa and 26th worldwide. The country’s military power is backed by significant oil income, allowing it to purchase modern weapons and sustain a highly trained army. Algeria prioritizes border protection and anti-terrorism efforts while keeping robust air and ground forces.

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3. Nigeria\xa0

Nigeria holds the third position in Africa and 31st place worldwide. The country has invested considerably in its military to fight against internal insurgency and terrorist activities. The Nigerian Armed Forces consist of a substantial number of active soldiers along with an expanding collection of armored vehicles and planes.

4. South Africa

South Africa holds the fourth position in Africa and is placed 40th on the world stage. It is recognized for its sophisticated defense sector, manufacturing a significant portion of its military hardware. Nevertheless, financial limitations have hindered the continued growth of its military forces in recent years.

5. Ethiopia\xa0

Ethiopia is positioned fifth in Africa and 52nd worldwide. Although facing economic difficulties, Ethiopia has a significant military force dedicated to regional security matters, especially conflicts within the Horn of Africa.

6. Angola\xa0

Angola is ranked sixth in Africa and 56th worldwide. The country’s military power is supported by income from oil, which finances its defense industry. Angola has focused on upgrading its military to tackle internal security issues.

7. Morocco

Morocco holds the seventh position in Africa and 59th place worldwide. The nation has prioritized upgrading its military hardware, especially for border protection and anti-terrorism efforts. Morocco has solid diplomatic relationships with Western countries to support defense collaboration.

8. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is ranked eighth in Africa and occupies the 66th position worldwide. Although facing internal conflicts, the nation has been striving to enhance its military strength by forming international alliances and boosting financial investments.

9. Sudan\xa0

Sudan is placed ninth in Africa and has a world ranking of 73rd. The country’s armed forces encounter major difficulties because of continuous political unrest but continue to prioritize safeguarding national territory.

10. Libya\xa0

Libya completes the top ten nations in Africa, holding a worldwide position at 76th. The nation’s military power has been impacted by prolonged civil strife, yet it still holds strategic significance because of its geographical position and valuable natural resources.

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