The newly elected President of Benin, Romuald Wadagni, made a brief but significant visit to Niger on June 2, marking his first trip there since the military takeover in Niamey in July 2023. This visit signals a potential easing of the strained relations between the two neighboring countries, as Niger’s military leadership has maintained its border closure with Benin, accusing it of excessive alignment with France and efforts to destabilize Niamey.
Diplomatic thaw and security cooperation
Upon arrival, Wadagni was greeted by Niger’s junta leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani. Following a prior stop in Nigeria, his second diplomatic mission focused on reviving security cooperation, given the persistent threat of jihadist violence affecting both nations. The two leaders engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening joint efforts against terrorism.
Wadagni departed Niamey in the early afternoon, with his next destination being Burkina Faso.
Benin’s proactive regional engagement
In a statement, Benin’s presidency emphasized that the visit aligns with Wadagni’s strategy of active neighborhood diplomacy, seeking to foster stronger ties with neighboring states. Hints of a thaw in relations emerged during Wadagni’s inauguration in Cotonou, where Niger’s Prime Minister, Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, was present.
From tension to cautious rapprochement
Earlier this year, General Tiani had publicly accused Benin’s former President Patrice Talon—Wadagni’s predecessor and mentor—of supporting jihadist attacks on Niamey’s airport. Benin has consistently denied these claims. Meanwhile, Benin itself has faced escalating jihadist violence in its northern regions, bordering Niger. Conversely, Niger has faced allegations—though never officially confirmed—of involvement in a failed coup attempt in Benin in late 2025.
