COTONOU, Benin Republic — Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Cotonou ahead of the inauguration of Romuald Wadagni as the President of the Republic of Benin.
Shettima is attending the inauguration as a special guest, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event scheduled to take place at the Presidential Palace in Cotonou on Sunday, May 24, 2026.
Okay News reports that the Vice President was received at the Cardinal Bernadin Gantin International Airport by Beninese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, and Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to the country, Amb. Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim.
The reception team also included Minister I of the Embassy of Nigeria in Cotonou, Amb. Bukar Kalambe, and Head of Chancery, Emmanuel Nwosa, who briefed the Vice President on the itinerary for the inauguration.
Speaking upon his arrival, Shettima praised the long-standing harmonious relationship between Nigeria and Benin Republic, stating it was essential for both nations to continue deepening their cultural, diplomatic, and socio-economic ties.
The inauguration marks the assumption of a seven-year constitutional term for Wadagni, who won the country’s April 12 presidential election under the ruling coalition, succeeding outgoing President Patrice Talon.
The Vice President is accompanied on the trip by senior aides and top government functionaries and is expected to return to Nigeria immediately after the conclusion of the events on Sunday.
