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Benin’s new leader, President Romuald Wadagni, arrived in Niamey on Tuesday, marking his country’s first presidential visit to Niger since the 2023 coup, state television reported. The trip signals a potential easing of tensions between the neighbouring nations.
Niger’s military leaders, who have severed ties with traditional ally France, previously closed the border with Benin after accusing the country of hosting “French bases” aimed at destabilising Niger.
Wadagni, who assumed office on May 24, was received by junta chief Abdourahamane Tiani. According to Tele Sahel, the first meeting was scheduled to take place in the presidential lounge at Niamey airport.
The discussions are expected to focus on reviving security cooperation, with both countries confronting insurgent violence along their borders.
In an early indication of improving relations, Niger’s Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine attended Wadagni’s inauguration in Cotonou, where he spoke of “a new path” for bilateral relations.
On Tuesday, Niamey’s main roads were adorned with flags of both nations, and hundreds of Beninese citizens gathered to welcome the presidential convoy. The show of public support reflected hopes for renewed collaboration and stability in the region.
This visit to Niger is Wadagni’s second foreign trip, following a visit to neighbouring Nigeria on Monday.
Observers suggest that these engagements could help mend the diplomatic rift and facilitate coordinated security measures to tackle extremist threats in the Sahel region. The meetings between Wadagni and Nigerien authorities may set the stage for closer cooperation in intelligence sharing, joint military operations, and border security management.
Regional analysts note that improving Benin–Niger relations could have wider implications for West African security, trade, and diplomacy, especially given the recent disruptions following Niger’s pivot away from France.
The visit represents a cautious but promising step toward stabilising ties between the two countries and enhancing regional security cooperation.
