Benin’s president wadagni strengthens ties with Sahel allies

Since assuming office on May 24, 2026, Benin’s new President, Romuald Wadagni, has embarked on a pivotal diplomatic mission to Niger and Burkina Faso this Tuesday, June 2. His primary objective: to restore and enhance bilateral relations with the Alliance of Sahel States.

Wadagni’s visit marks a historic moment—he becomes the first Beninese head of state to travel to Niger following the political transition that saw General Abdourahamane Tiani take power on July 26, 2023, after the ousting of Mohamed Bazoum.

While his predecessors had previously attempted mediation efforts—including a working visit by a Nigerien delegation to Cotonou in July 2024—progress has stalled since then. Today, the borders between Benin and Niger remain closed, inflicting severe economic repercussions on both nations and disrupting the free movement of people and goods.

Before heading to Ouagadougou and Niamey, Wadagni concluded his first official foreign trip since his inauguration on May 24. That visit took him to Nigeria, Benin’s most crucial commercial partner and a key regional ally.