Lomé, 3 June 2026 — Following visits to Nigeria, Niger, and Burkina Faso, Bénin’s President Romuald Wadagni touched down in Lomé today for a working visit laced with goodwill. He was welcomed at the Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport tarmac by Togolese President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, marking the start of a day of high-level discussions between the two neighboring nations.
This stop in Togo is part of a broader regional tour aimed at reinforcing alliances and easing lingering diplomatic tensions. “I extend my gratitude to His Excellency Romuald Wadagni, President of the Republic of Bénin, for gracing Lomé with this working visit,” President Gnassingbé said upon concluding the welcome ceremony. The Togolese leader also reaffirmed the strength of ongoing dialogue between the two countries, pledging continued efforts to improve the well-being of their citizens.
Diplomacy in action: rebuilding trust
For years, Cotonou and Lomé have grappled with mutual suspicion, fueled by high-profile cases and allegations of interference. President Wadagni’s visit—including a private meeting with President Gnassingbé—sends a clear message of reconciliation. Diplomatic circles confirm the leaders focused on economic integration, regional stability, and shared growth.
Discussions also explored opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Having already met with leaders of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), President Wadagni is pushing to restore economic trust with his immediate neighbor. As key transit hubs in West Africa, Lomé and Cotonou share a vested interest in smoothing cross-border trade routes.
“Our tête-à-tête centered on deepening friendship and cooperation between our nations,” President Gnassingbé emphasized. This renewed commitment to “brotherhood and solidarity” aims to overcome past friction and foster a thriving regional space.
Economic and security priorities take center stage
Beyond symbolic gestures, President Wadagni’s visit seeks to finalize several agreements. Both countries face transnational security challenges, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea. Enhanced police and customs cooperation ranks high on the agenda, though specifics remain undisclosed.
The Bénin president will continue his tour in Abidjan and Accra, underscoring his strategy to re-engage within ECOWAS. For Togo, this visit represents a critical step toward normalizing relations with Cotonou—a priority for Lomé as it works to stabilize its regional environment. The true test now lies in whether this political commitment translates into tangible, lasting progress that strengthens regional integration and meets the needs of both nations’ citizens.