Benin Swears in Romuald Wadagni, Promises Economic, Security Reform

Romuald Wadagni has been sworn in as the new President of Benin during a grand inauguration ceremony held in Cotonou and attended by over 6,000 guests, including regional leaders, diplomats and government officials.

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event alongside members of the diplomatic corps and other West African leaders.

The 49-year-old former finance minister officially succeeded Patrice Talon after securing victory in the April 12 presidential election with more than 94 per cent of the votes cast.

In his inaugural speech, President Wadagni pledged to pursue economic reforms aimed at improving the living conditions of citizens while strengthening cooperation with neighbouring countries to address growing security challenges in the Sahel region.

He also promised to deepen regional integration, boost investments and ensure that economic growth delivers tangible benefits to ordinary citizens.

Speaking after the inauguration, Vice President Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to stronger bilateral relations with Benin and support for democratic governance in the region.

According to him, Nigeria and Benin Republic remain closely connected by history, culture and shared aspirations, describing both nations as “one people tied to a common destiny.”

The inauguration ceremony featured cultural displays, military parades and goodwill messages from regional leaders, marking the beginning of a new administration expected to focus on economic stability, regional security and stronger diplomatic cooperation within West Africa.