Lomé, June 3, 2026 — Following visits to Nigeria, Niger, and Burkina Faso, Benin’s President Romuald Wadagni touched down in Lomé this afternoon for a working and friendship visit. He was warmly received at Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport by Togolese President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, launching a day of strategic discussions between the neighboring nations.
This stop in Togo is part of a broader regional tour aimed at strengthening alliances and easing lingering diplomatic strains. “I extend my gratitude to my brother, H.E. Romuald Wadagni, President of the Republic of Benin, for honoring us with this working visit today,” President Gnassingbé remarked at the end of the welcome ceremony. The Togolese leader emphasized the enduring quality of dialogue between the two countries, pledging continued efforts to enhance the well-being of their citizens.
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Rebuilding bridges in West Africa
Over recent years, Cotonou and Lomé have navigated a relationship strained by unresolved disputes, including high-profile cases and mutual suspicions. President Wadagni’s visit—beginning with a private meeting with President Gnassingbé—sends a clear signal of reconciliation. Diplomatic observers note that the discussions prioritized economic integration, regional stability, and shared prosperity.
The talks also explored opportunities within Africa’s Continental Free Trade Area, with Benin’s leader leveraging his visits to Sahel Alliance capitals to rebuild trust with Togo. Both nations, key transit hubs in West Africa, stand to gain from smoother trade corridors and deeper cooperation.
“Our tête-à-tête focused on deepening friendship and cooperation between our two countries,” President Gnassingbé affirmed. This commitment to solidarity and fraternity aims to overcome past tensions and foster a thriving regional space.
Securing shared progress
Beyond symbolism, President Wadagni’s visit seeks to finalize agreements on critical fronts. Cross-border security remains a shared concern, particularly amid rising instability in the Gulf of Guinea. Enhanced police and customs cooperation topped the agenda, though specifics remain undisclosed.
The Beninese leader will next travel to Abidjan and Accra, reinforcing his regional diplomatic strategy within ECOWAS. For Togo, this visit marks a pivotal step toward normalizing relations with Cotonou—a priority for stabilizing the region. The true test lies in translating political intent into tangible, lasting progress that meets the aspirations of both nations’ citizens.
