Benin-Niger border reopening: a relief for both countries, says expert

Could the Benin-Niger border finally reopen after three years of closure? On Saturday, June 20, Niger’s Interior Minister General Mohamed Toumba traveled to Benin to discuss the reopening process with experts. He set three conditions: a defense agreement, a security pact guaranteeing that neither country’s land would be used against the other, and full transparency over foreign military installations near the border. Political scientist Guillaume Moumouni weighed in on these demands.

This is a standard part of any negotiation. When you enter talks, you aim high, then adjust to what the other side can accept. In principle, Benin cannot reject these prerequisites, especially since a defense accord already existed between the two nations until Niger denounced it in September 2023. As for transparency, Benin has repeatedly explained that it hosts no foreign bases—so this condition is more about reassuring Niger through better communication. The third condition, however, is more delicate and will likely spark further discussions. Not all conditions will be accepted without revision.

After Romuald Wadagni’s visit to Niger in early June, a committee of experts was tasked with identifying sticking points before proposing reopening terms. What are those obstacles, beyond the three conditions?

The main hurdle is Niger’s fear that foreign forces might violate its territory. This refers primarily to France, which has strained relations with Niger’s government but maintains normal ties—including military cooperation—with Benin. That is the core disagreement. We are in a security dilemma. Although top leaders on both sides have expressed a clear political will to warm relations and restore diplomatic ties, this issue is not insurmountable. Niger simply wants reassurance that no hostile intentions exist near its borders.

The three-year border closure has heavily impacted daily life for border communities, truck drivers using that route, and the economies and security of both nations. Is reopening inevitable for economic and security reasons?

Absolutely. It’s also important for Niger to understand that the closure was not solely Benin’s doing—Niger played a part too. Everyone knows that the port of Cotonou is Niger’s natural gateway. The opportunity cost for Niger is extremely high, and the consequences are severe for both economies. Both sides therefore have a strong incentive to reach a solution.