Benin and Niger signal easing tensions as new leader sworn in

Zeine’s presence at the inauguration ceremony in Cotonou was widely viewed as a symbolic step toward restoring dialogue after months of tensions between Benin and junta-led Niger following the 2023 military coup in Niamey.

Relations between the two countries deteriorated sharply after the coup, with border closures, political disputes and shifting regional alliances increasing mistrust between both governments.

Speaking after the ceremony, Zeine suggested the visit could mark the beginning of renewed cooperation.

“I believe this is a new path opening up,” the Nigerien prime minister said, adding that both countries should work to strengthen ties and improve collaboration.

Wadagni, a former finance minister seen as a pragmatic and technocratic leader, also highlighted the importance of rebuilding partnerships with neighbouring countries during his inaugural address.

“With our neighbouring countries, we will place particular emphasis on deepening regional cooperation,” he said. “Benin will continue to act in favour of stability, dialogue and respect.”

The inauguration comes at a sensitive moment for West Africa, where political divisions and security threats have reshaped regional relationships following a series of coups across the Sahel.

Benin has increasingly faced jihadist attacks in its northern regions linked to the Al-Qaeda-affiliated Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), while Niger and neighbouring Burkina Faso continue to battle expanding Islamist insurgencies.

At the same time, tensions have grown between the Alliance of Sahel States and the Economic Community of West African States bloc, pushing regional diplomacy into a fragile phase.

Although the ceremony on May 24th is unlikely to resolve disputes overnight, Zeine’s attendance signalled that communication channels between Benin and Niger may be reopening after months of strained relations.

Africa News with AP, Maghrebi.org