In a groundbreaking move for Benin’s institutional history, President Romuald Wadagni has appointed Captain Elvire Toupé as Aide-de-Camp to the Presidency of the Republic. This decision marks the first time a woman has been entrusted with such a critical role in the nation’s presidential security apparatus.
The appointment places Captain Toupé at the heart of the closest protection circle for the Head of State, underscoring the government’s commitment to gender equality in leadership positions within the security sector.
a trailblazer from Porto-Novo
Born on July 21, 1990, in Porto-Novo, Captain Elvire Toupé has built a reputation for military discipline and academic excellence. She is an alumna of the first-ever graduating class of the Lycée militaire des jeunes filles Général Mathieu Kérékou in Natitingou, where she laid the foundation for her distinguished career.
After completing officer training at the École nationale des officiers in Toffo between 2012 and 2014, she earned a diploma in infantry section leadership. Though she briefly pursued a career in medical imaging—holding a degree in the field—she ultimately returned to active military service, driven by her passion for defense and security.
In 2021, she reached the rank of Captain, making her the highest-ranking female officer in Benin’s infantry forces today.
experience beyond Benin’s borders
Captain Toupé’s professional journey extends far beyond national borders. She received advanced training at the Caribbean Institute for Professional Military Education in Jamaica and served as a Gender Military Advisor with the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) between 2017 and 2018.
Fluent in both French and English, she joined the Garde républicaine in 2022, where she previously served as Head of Security for the Court of Auditors before her latest appointment.
