President Bola Tinubu congratulated Romuald Wadagni on his victory in Benin Republic's presidential election held on April 12, 2026. In a statement released on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised Wadagni's emergence as a reflection of the trust placed in him by Beninese voters. Provisional results showed Wadagni, Benin's Minister of Finance, securing about 94% of the vote, while his closest rival, Paul Hounkpe, conceded defeat before final results were declared. Tinubu's letter to the President-elect noted that the election was peaceful and demonstrated Benin's democratic commitment. He also highlighted the longstanding ties between Nigeria and Benin, expressing Nigeria's readiness to strengthen bilateral cooperation, regional security and economic ties within ECOWAS and the African Union. The election recorded a turnout of about 58.75% and was largely deemed peaceful by observers, including ECOWAS, despite minor irregularities reported. Wadagni's victory is viewed as a continuation of outgoing President Patrice Talon's economic reforms, during which Wadagni played a key role in driving growth and infrastructure development. Benin's next presidential election is scheduled for 2033 following a constitutional amendment extending the presidential term to seven years.
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