On Wednesday, May 14, 2026, the National Higher Police School in Porto-Novo, Bénin, hosted the official inauguration ceremony for advanced preparatory courses. These prestigious programs are designed to lead to the Brevet d’Études Supérieures de Sécurité (Bess), the Diplôme d’État-Major des Forces de Sécurité (Demes), and the Diplôme Spécial d’État-Major des Forces de Sécurité, marking a significant step in enhancing national security expertise. 

This formal commencement signifies a crucial milestone in bolstering the capabilities of Bénin’s internal security forces. The event, held under the distinguished patronage of Inspector General of Police (2nd class) Kokou Brice Allowanou, who serves as the Director General of the Republican Police, brought together a diverse assembly. Attendees included prominent military figures, political and administrative leaders, high-ranking Republican Police officials, and esteemed academics.

Divisional Police Commissioner Gilles Yekpe, the Director of the National Higher Police School, outlined the ambitious goals of these specialized programs. He emphasized their role in preparing trainees for senior responsibilities within the security sector, highlighting the imperative to cultivate a forward-looking perspective on national, sub-regional, and international security challenges among participants.
« For this current session, the National Higher Police School has assembled highly qualified instructors, experienced national and international speakers, and a dedicated pedagogical support system focused entirely on your success. The curriculum will notably cover critical areas such as police strategy, human and operational resource management, command principles, and both internal and cross-border security issues », Commissioner Yekpe stated.

Inspector General of Police Kokou Brice Allowanou underscored the rigorous demands of these ongoing professional development courses and the high expectations placed upon these future senior security force leaders. « These training programs represent an invaluable opportunity to enhance your professional competencies, foster your leadership acumen, and prepare you for the advanced responsibilities that await you », he declared. He further urged the trainees to approach their studies with unwavering rigor, discipline, and dedication.

The ceremony concluded with an insightful inaugural conference. The Dean of the Faculty of Law and Political Sciences at the University of Parakou delivered the presentation, focusing on the timely theme: « Rule of Law, Republican Police, and Security Challenges ».

With the launch of these advanced training initiatives, the National Higher Police School aims to significantly enhance the professionalization of the Republican Police. Its objective is to cultivate a security elite equipped to effectively address contemporary challenges. This strategic move also reflects the Béninese authorities’ commitment to further modernizing the nation’s sovereign institutions.