Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Cotonou, the capital of the Republic of Benin, ahead of the inauguration of President-elect Romuald Wadagni.
Shettima is attending the ceremony as a special guest and is representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event scheduled to take place at the Presidential Palace on Sunday, May 24, 2026.
Upon arrival at the Cardinal Bernadin Gantin International Airport, the Vice President was received by senior officials of the Beninese government and Nigerian diplomatic representatives.
Those who welcomed him included the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Benin, S.E.M Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, as well as Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to Benin, Amb. Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim.
Also present were officials from the Nigerian Embassy in Cotonou, including Amb. Bukar Kalambe and Head of Chancery Emmanuel Nwosa.
The Vice President was briefed on the inauguration programme by the Beninese Foreign Minister and other diplomatic officials shortly after his arrival.
Shettima commended the longstanding cordial relationship between Nigeria and Benin Republic, noting that both countries share deep cultural, diplomatic and socio-economic ties that continue to strengthen regional cooperation.
He said it was natural for both nations to deepen collaboration in the interest of stability and development across West Africa.
The Vice President, who is accompanied by senior government officials and aides, is expected to return to Nigeria after concluding his engagements in Cotonou.
The visit underscores ongoing diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and its West African neighbours, particularly within the framework of regional integration and cooperation.
