Shettima Strengthens Nigeria-Benin Ties at Inauguration

On Sunday, Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration ceremony of Romuald Wadagni as President of the Benin Republic, held in Cotonou. Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Benin, emphasizing the importance of a strategic partnership to sustain economic and democratic gains in the region.

He noted the historical and cultural connections that bind Nigeria and Benin, including significant trade relations currently valued at approximately $2 billion annually. Shettima highlighted the interdependence between the two nations, which share nearly 600 kilometers of border across six Nigerian states, including Kebbi State.

He pointed out that around five million Nigerians reside in Benin, which has an estimated population of 15 million. The Vice President underscored the need for both nations to work together to promote democratic governance, peace, and economic prosperity across the ECOWAS sub-region.