The ambition driving Benin’s military aviation training is not just about aircraft and runways — it is about building a foundation of sovereignty. The École aéronautique militaire de Cana (EAM-Cana), nestled within the Cana Air Base, stands at the heart of this effort. It equips the Beninese Armed Forces with skills in piloting, aircraft maintenance, air traffic control and technical support. Its classrooms, flight simulators, workshops and innovation spaces are designed to meet the growing demands of the air force. The school also plays a key role in training the 100 drone pilots recruited by the General Staff.
A ministerial visit that goes beyond protocol
On Friday, 9 October 2026, the Minister Delegate for National Defence, Gildas Habib Bignon Agonkan, travelled to Cana for a working visit. The trip was not merely ceremonial — it offered a deep dive into the school’s capabilities, direct exchanges with its leadership, and a firsthand look at the needs of the training units stationed on the base.
Listening to the units on the ground
Received by Lieutenant-Colonel Olayéni Thierry Monda, commander of the Cana Air Base, the minister attended a series of briefings covering missions, equipment and the challenges faced by military structures. These included the 1st Mixed Artillery Battalion, the National Officers School and the Peacekeeping Operations Training Centre.
Hands-on with training tools and technology
The delegation then toured the pedagogical and technical facilities of EAM-Cana, including classrooms, flight simulators and maintenance workshops. A reconnaissance drone demonstration, flown by military students in training, was also staged. The visit concluded with an inspection of the aerodrome’s runway, which base officials say is ageing and no longer meets current standards and operational needs.
Why local training matters for Benin’s sovereignty
At the end of the immersion, Gildas Agonkan praised the command’s work and the commitment of instructors and trainees. He stressed the importance of training pilots and technicians on national soil to strengthen Benin’s autonomy in military aeronautics.
Investing in the future of the school
The minister reaffirmed the government’s willingness to support the school’s development. The stated ambition is to turn EAM-Cana into a sub-regional reference hub. Achieving this will require investment in infrastructure, equipment and teaching resources, particularly to meet the growing demands of aviation training.
Through this visit, the authorities are highlighting the role of specialised training in modernising the Beninese Armed Forces. The development of EAM-Cana is emerging as a key stake in air sovereignty.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.