Cotonou’s grand stage at the Palais des Congrès played host to a historic gathering on May 24, as the world converged for Romuald Wadagni’s swearing-in ceremony. The event drew an impressive roster of political figures and business tycoons, underscoring the new president’s growing international stature—a reputation solidified during his tenure as Finance Minister.

High-profile diplomatic engagements

The sprawling esplanade transformed into the nerve center of West African diplomacy. While protocol typically excludes sitting heads of state from such ceremonies, the presence of delegations from over 16 nations highlighted Wadagni’s diplomatic clout. The attendance of Nigeria’s Vice President and Côte d’Ivoire’s Prime Minister underscored the Bénin’s strategic alignment with the region’s economic powerhouses.

The most electrifying moment came when Niger’s Prime Minister, Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, and foreign ministers from Burkina Faso and Mali were announced. The audience erupted in spontaneous applause—a clear reflection of public optimism for a presidency promising regional reconciliation. This spirit of unity was further emphasized by a statement from the Nigerien envoy, who remarked, “I see a new path opening,” signaling hope for collaborative efforts against shared challenges like terrorism. Wadagni had long championed this vision, repeatedly stressing in his campaign that neighboring nations must “unite or face defeat” in combating insecurity.

Economic heavyweights rally behind the new leader

Beyond politics, the ceremony doubled as an exclusive economic summit, showcasing Wadagni’s decade-long expertise in state finances. Africa’s business elite made a strong showing: Nigerian magnate Aliko Dangote, prominent Franco-Malagasy entrepreneur Hassanein Hiridjee (CEO of Axian Group), Ivorian businessman and politician Adama Bictogo (chairman of Snedai Group), and Gagan Gupta (CEO of Arise IIP) were all in attendance. Their presence was complemented by Makhtar Diop, head of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a testament to the robust economic policies implemented under Wadagni’s leadership.

During his time as Finance Minister, Wadagni steered the Bénin toward rapid growth, with a projected 6.5% GDP expansion for 2026. His fiscal discipline—boosting domestic revenue beyond 1 trillion FCFA while keeping debt below 55% of GDP—earned global investor confidence. These achievements fueled major industrial projects, including the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ), a partnership with Arise IIP. Already generating over 25,000 jobs and exporting textiles to Europe and the U.S., the GDIZ symbolizes the Bénin’s ambition to become a continental hub for manufacturing and trade.

The turnout in Cotonou on May 24 wasn’t just a celebration—it was a global endorsement of Romuald Wadagni’s leadership, both as a reformist finance chief and a unifying force for regional progress.