Abuja, NIGERIA – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his warmest congratulations to Romuald Wadagni, the President-elect of the Republic of Benin, following his decisive victory in the April 12 presidential election.
Okay News reports that in a personally signed letter released on Thursday, April 16, 2026, the 74-year-old Nigerian leader described the victory as a testament to the trust the Beninese people have in Wadagni’s vision. Wadagni, 49, who has served as Benin’s Minister of Economy and Finance since 2016, secured an overwhelming majority to emerge as the successor to outgoing President Patrice Talon.
President Tinubu praised the people of Benin for their commitment to a peaceful democratic process and emphasized the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties shared by the two neighboring West African nations. He expressed his eagerness to collaborate with the incoming administration to enhance regional security and promote economic prosperity within the ECOWAS sub-region and the African Union.
“Your victory reflects the trust the Beninese people have placed in your vision and your distinguished record of service,” the letter read. “I look forward to working closely with your administration to strengthen our bilateral relations further.”
Wadagni, a technocrat often credited with Benin’s recent economic stability and infrastructure boom, is set to become one of the youngest heads of state on the continent. President Tinubu assured the President-elect of Nigeria’s “unstinting support” as he prepares to assume the responsibilities of his new office.
