On Thursday, May 28, 2026, Romuald Wadagni, the President of the Republic of Bénin, presided over the very first Council of Ministers meeting of his seven-year term, spanning the period 2026 to 2033. Just days after his official investiture as the nation’s leader, the newly formed government convened at the esteemed Palais de la Marina to receive the head of state’s foundational guidelines.
During this inaugural session, President Wadagni extended his congratulations to the recently appointed ministers, who now bear the crucial responsibility of driving public action throughout this mandate. The Béninese leader emphasized that their executive roles represent a profound mission dedicated to serving the Nation, unequivocally stating that it is “under no circumstances a personal privilege.”
The head of state further highlighted the core principles destined to guide the performance of governmental duties. He urged his ministers to demonstrate utmost sobriety, unwavering integrity, and consistent solidarity, while firmly setting aside all partisan or personal considerations when managing public affairs.
Reducing communal disparities and the imperative of national security
During this initial governmental assembly, Romuald Wadagni articulated several major priorities for his septennat. The President of the Republic specifically underscored the critical need for a more equitable distribution of development across the entire national territory.
My understanding is that he tasked his governmental team with continuing and intensifying policies aimed at progressively narrowing the gaps between the various communes. This comprehensive approach will encompass the deployment of modern infrastructure, enhanced access to essential public services, and increased investments within local communities.
The nation’s security also stands as a paramount focus announced during this Council of Ministers. The Béninese President instructed the government to maintain sustained efforts in defense and territorial protection, especially given that recent armed incursions in the northern regions of the country continue to heavily engage the defense and security forces.
A redefined framework for governmental operations
The new executive body also plans to overhaul the functioning of its governmental instances. In line with the decisions made during this pivotal meeting, the Council of Ministers will now convene for ordinary sessions once a month, specifically on the first Wednesday. However, extraordinary sessions may be called whenever circumstances demand.
As for the Interministerial Committee, it will hold its meetings twice monthly, precisely on the first and third Mondays. The government additionally intends to organize joint sessions, bringing together the Interministerial Committee, the Council of Ministers, and sectoral ministers, to deliberate on specific and intricate matters.
This foundational governmental meeting thus officially inaugurates the institutional operations of the new septennat, which commenced following Romuald Wadagni’s oath of office on May 24, 2026.
