As Romuald Wadagni prepares for his inauguration this Sunday, May 24, 2026, outgoing President Patrice Talon addressed the Nation, marking the conclusion of his two constitutional terms. Following a decade in office, which included navigating a thwarted coup attempt, the departing head of state reflected on his administration’s achievements and urged for continued progress in public affairs.
In his pivotal address to the Béninois populace, President Talon ushered in a new political chapter for the nation, concurrently reviewing his journey at the helm of Bénin.
Patrice Talon extended his heartfelt congratulations to President-elect Romuald Wadagni, who is poised to assume the country’s leadership. He emphasized the gravity of the moment, stating that on “Sunday, May 24, 2026, our President-elect, Mr. Romuald Wadagni, will take his oath to formally begin his duties. From that point, he will bear the delicate and inspiring mission of guiding our nation towards greater progress and collective and individual well-being.”
The outgoing leader also conveyed his sincere wishes for the incoming head of state’s success, affirming his hope that Wadagni would achieve great things during his upcoming seven-year tenure.
On the eve of his departure, Patrice Talon presented a largely positive assessment of his stewardship. With evident emotion, he expressed profound gratitude, acknowledging the demanding path jointly undertaken over the past ten years. He highlighted the challenges overcome, the significant reforms implemented, and the major projects initiated to strengthen the state and dedicate public action to socio-economic development.
Acknowledging the inherent difficulties, he further noted that the journey was not always smooth, often riddled with obstacles, yet these very hurdles fueled their resolve and made the experience more rewarding.
President Talon asserted that the collective efforts had yielded tangible results, observing that Bénin has made significant strides, garnering admiration from across the globe. He proudly declared that their sacrifices and hard work are gradually bearing fruit.
He attributed this success to the collective endeavors of all Béninois, from urban centers to rural areas, including the diaspora, encompassing both younger and older generations.
In a more personal segment of his speech, Patrice Talon conveyed his immense personal gratitude, stating that leading this remarkable endeavor and serving the nation had been an extraordinary honor. He reiterated that his gratitude towards Bénin and every citizen is boundless.
As he definitively concluded his mandate, Patrice Talon expressed unwavering confidence in the nation’s future trajectory.
He concluded by sharing his conviction that under President Romuald Wadagni’s leadership, Bénin will continue its significant strides towards fulfilling its destiny as a great Nation. He expressed no doubt that, building upon past achievements and driven by an unwavering determination, the people would rally around Wadagni. This collective mobilization, he affirmed, would serve Bénin’s superior interest, conquering new frontiers of progress that generate well-being, pride, and prosperity for all citizens.
