President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has extended his congratulations to Romuald Wadagni on his election as President of the Republic of Benin. In his message, Tinubu pledged to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two neighboring nations. Wadagni, who previously served as Benin’s Minister of Finance under outgoing President Patrice Talon, achieved a remarkable victory in Sunday’s presidential election, securing over 94 percent of the vote.
In a letter personally signed by Tinubu and released by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga on Thursday in Abuja, the Nigerian leader described Wadagni’s victory as a testament to the trust placed in him by the Beninese people. Tinubu remarked, “Your victory reflects the trust the Beninese people have placed in your vision and your distinguished record of service as Minister of Finance.” He also commended the people of Benin for their resilience and commitment to democratic values throughout the electoral process.
Emphasizing the longstanding historical, cultural, and economic ties between Nigeria and Benin, Tinubu expressed his readiness to collaborate closely with the incoming administration to deepen cooperation. He noted that such collaboration would enhance regional security and promote economic prosperity within the frameworks of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU). Tinubu highlighted the significance of partnerships within these regional blocs, underscoring their shared goals of peace, stability, and development.
As Wadagni prepares to assume office, Tinubu wished him wisdom, strength, and success, assuring him of Nigeria’s support in advancing their mutual objectives. This election marks a significant transition in Benin’s leadership, with Wadagni set to succeed Talon, who has been in power since 2016. Nigeria and Benin maintain close economic and security cooperation, with cross-border trade and regional stability being among their key shared interests. As Wadagni takes office, both nations are expected to further consolidate their partnership, focusing on economic integration, security collaboration, and regional development initiatives.
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