Shettima Attends Wadagni's Inauguration as Benin President

On May 24, 2026, Kashim Shettima, the Vice President of Nigeria, departed from the nation's capital, Abuja, to attend the inauguration of Romuald Wadagni as President of the Republic of Benin. This event, which will take place in Cotonou, is significant as it marks the beginning of Wadagni's seven-year term in office.

Shettima's attendance is part of a broader representation of African leaders at the ceremony, which is scheduled to occur at the presidential palace in Cotonou. The inauguration will include traditional state protocols, such as the official handover of power, the transfer of the presidential sash, and a motorcade procession to the Charles de Gaulle Stadium in Porto Novo.

Vice President Shettima will be accompanied by senior aides and top government officials and is expected to return to Nigeria after the event. The relationship between Nigeria and Benin is characterized by deep historical, socio-cultural, and economic ties, despite modern challenges in border security and trade policies.