Béninese President Romuald Wadagni has made a landmark appointment, designating Captain Elvire Toupé as the new aide-de-camp for the presidency. This significant move marks an unprecedented moment in Bénin’s institutional history, as a woman now holds a pivotal role at the heart of the presidential security detail.
Born in Porto-Novo on July 21, 1990, Captain Elvire Toupé’s career is distinguished by exceptional military discipline and academic achievement. She was a member of the inaugural class of troop children at the Général Mathieu Kérékou Military High School for Young Girls in Natitingou, showcasing her early commitment to military service.
Her educational journey continued at the National School for Officers in Toffo, where she trained between 2012 and 2014, earning her diploma as an infantry section chief. Demonstrating diverse talents, she also holds a bachelor’s degree in medical imaging, a field in which she practiced briefly before fully dedicating herself to her military career.
Captain Toupé’s ascent within the ranks is notable; she was promoted to captain in 2021 and is currently recognized as the highest-ranking female officer within Béninese infantry.
Her professional experience extends beyond national borders. She received specialized training at the Caribbean Institute for Professional Military Education in Jamaica and served with MINUSMA as a military gender advisor from 2017 to 2018, underscoring her international engagement and expertise.
Fluent in both French and English, Captain Toupé joined the Republican Guard in 2022, where she previously held the critical position of head of security for the Court of Accounts, further solidifying her extensive background in high-level security operations.
