In a message released by outgoing Bénin President Patrice Talon, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Béninois people for the demanding path they dared to walk together over the past decade—through challenges overcome, reforms implemented, and major projects launched to strengthen the state and align public action with socioeconomic development.

Here is the full message:

My dear compatriots,

This Sunday, May 24, 2026, our elected President, Mr. Romuald Wadagni, will take the oath of office, officially beginning his mandate. He will then have the noble and challenging mission of guiding our nation toward greater progress and collective and individual well-being.

To him, I extend my sincerest wishes for success in the pivotal task that lies ahead for the next seven years.

As I prepare to leave office, I want to express my deepest gratitude to you all. I am immensely proud of the journey we have undertaken together—a journey of resilience, ambition, and determination that has shaped our nation’s progress through reforms, major projects, and the strengthening of our institutions for socioeconomic advancement.

The path was not always easy. Often, it was fraught with obstacles, but these challenges only made the journey more rewarding and galvanized our collective spirit.

Today, as the world watches and expresses its admiration, we can see how far we have come. Our efforts and sacrifices are bearing fruit. This achievement belongs to all of us—Béninoises and Béninois from urban centers, rural areas, and the diaspora, young and old alike.

To have led this noble endeavor and served our nation has been a great honor. My gratitude to Bénin and to each of you is boundless.

I must also pay tribute to an exceptional woman whose unwavering support, patience, and mentorship have been invaluable. I refer to Mrs. Claudine Gbénagnon Kpoviessi, wife of Talon, whom I thank from the bottom of my heart.

I also extend my deepest appreciation to all those who have surrounded me with love, friendship, and support—your encouragement has enabled me to give my best.

As I hand over the reins to President Romuald Wadagni, I am confident that under his leadership, our country will continue to make remarkable strides toward fulfilling its destiny as a great nation.

With the achievements we have already accomplished and the shared determination to go further, I have no doubt that we will unite around him and with him, in the supreme interest of Bénin, to conquer new heights of progress that bring well-being, pride, and prosperity to all.

Long live the Republic!

Long live Bénin!