On June 2, 2026, Benin’s President Romuald Wadagni embarked on an official friendship and working visit to Niamey, Niger, where he was greeted with full honors by Niger’s leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani. The warm welcome reflected the strengthening bonds between the two nations.

Following the formal reception, the two heads of state held a private meeting at the Presidential Palace in Niamey. This was followed by an expanded working session with delegations from both countries, focusing on shared priorities and regional challenges.

A joint statement issued at the end of the visit highlighted the deep historical ties and friendship between Benin and Niger. Both leaders emphasized their shared vision of deepening bilateral relations to address the aspirations of their people for peace, security, and progress.

Security concerns took center stage in the discussions. With ongoing security threats in the Sahel, the two presidents underscored the need for closer collaboration to combat terrorism and cross-border crime. They stressed that regional stability is essential for implementing development initiatives.

The leaders also agreed to expand cooperation across political, economic, scientific, and cultural spheres. A key decision was the commitment to reopen the Benin-Niger border, with a joint expert committee tasked with addressing existing challenges and proposing solutions within 15 days.

At the conclusion of the visit, President Tiani expressed appreciation for President Wadagni’s visit, while the latter praised the hospitality shown. Wadagni extended an official invitation to Tiani to visit Benin, which was warmly accepted. The details of the return visit will be finalized through diplomatic channels, reflecting the shared determination to solidify their strategic partnership.