By Charles Abere
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has described the election of 49-year-old Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni as Benin Republic’s next president as a vote for continuity, competence, and generational renewal in West African leadership.
Congratulating the President-Elect on his April 12 landslide victory, President Tinubu said the outcome reflects the trust the Beninese people have placed in his vision and distinguished record of service as Minister of Finance.
Wadagni, a technocrat widely credited with steering a decade of rapid growth, tourism expansion, and infrastructure delivery under outgoing President Patrice Talon, will lead Benin amid pressing demands to bridge the wealth gap and curb insecurity in the north.
In his letter to Wadagni, President Tinubu commended the Government and people of Benin for conducting a peaceful election and praised citizens for their resilience and commitment to the democratic process.
“This transition marks a significant chapter in your nation’s history,” the President wrote.
“Our two nations share a long history of friendship, cultural ties, and cooperation. I therefore look forward to working closely with your administration to strengthen our bilateral relations further, enhance regional security, and promote economic prosperity within the ECOWAS sub-region and the African Union.”
President Tinubu noted that Nigeria stands ready to partner with the new administration on trade facilitation, youth employment, industrial policy, and coordinated responses to cross-border security threats.
“As you prepare to assume the onerous responsibilities of the high office of the Presidency, I wish you great wisdom, fortitude, and success.
“You can please rest assured of my unstinting support and cooperation in this regard,” he added.
