Wadagni sworn in as Benin president, pledges inclusive development and regional stability – Region – World

The inauguration ceremony in Cotonou began with military music, setting a formal and symbolic tone for the event.

In a notable moment reflecting Benin’s culture of respect and democratic continuity, former president Nicéphore Soglo arrived at the ceremony in his car and entered the venue in a wheelchair to attend the inauguration. His presence was widely seen as a powerful symbol of national unity and deep respect for senior statesmen in Beninese society.

In his inauguration speech, Wadagni said the country had undergone a “profound transformation” over the past decade, stressing that the next phase would focus on ensuring that economic growth translates into tangible improvements in citizens’ daily lives.

The new president paid tribute to his predecessor, Patrice Talon, praising his “determination” and “long-term vision” in restoring confidence in the state and launching major reforms. He also honoured former presidents Soglo, Mathieu Kérékou, and Boni Yayi for preserving the country’s democratic and peaceful tradition.

Addressing Benin’s youth, Wadagni vowed to create greater economic opportunities and support entrepreneurship, while promising expanded access to financing and social protection for women. He also pledged increased support for farmers through mechanization, improved seeds, financing, and agricultural processing infrastructure.

The president stressed that security and development remain closely linked, particularly amid growing terrorist threats in West Africa. He affirmed that Benin would continue investing in defense and security forces while promoting development projects and public services in vulnerable areas.

Wadagni further emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, calling for stronger coordination among African countries in confronting terrorism and advancing economic integration. He reiterated Benin’s commitment to partnerships based on “mutual respect, trust, and shared interest.”

Egypt was represented at the ceremony by Ragaa El wakeel ambassador of Egypt to Benin.

Wadagni, who previously served as Benin’s Minister of Economy and Finance, won the 12 April presidential election with more than 94 percent of the vote, succeeding Talon after his second and final constitutional term.

With his inauguration, Wadagni becomes the fifth elected president of Benin since the country’s democratic transition in 1990, and the 17th president since independence in 1960, underscoring the country’s long political evolution and stability in West Africa.

Born in Lokossa in 1976, Wadagni built an international career in finance before returning to public service in 2016. A graduate of Grenoble École de Management and trained at Harvard, he spent nearly two decades at Deloitte, working across Paris, Boston, New York, and Africa.

As Minister of Economy and Finance from 2016 to 2026, he was widely regarded as a key architect of Benin’s economic transformation, helping the country achieve sustained growth, strengthen fiscal discipline, and enhance its international financial standing.

Wadagni was elected President on 12 April 2026 and officially inaugurated on 24 May 2026, marking the beginning of a new phase in Benin’s economic and political trajectory.

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