Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja for Cotonou, Benin Republic, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of President-elect Romuald Wadagni.
Shettima is expected to join other African leaders and international dignitaries at the ceremony scheduled for Sunday, May 24, 2026.
The swearing-in will mark Wadagni’s formal assumption of office for a seven-year constitutional term. His running mate, Mariam Chabi Talata, is also expected to take the oath of office as Vice President.
According to the programme, inauguration activities will begin in Porto-Novo, the administrative capital of Benin Republic, before moving to official state ceremonies at the Presidential Palace in Cotonou.
Traditional inauguration events in the country are expected to include the formal handover of power, transfer of presidential insignia, and a ceremonial motorcade procession to the Charles de Gaulle Stadium in Porto-Novo.
Nigeria and Benin Republic share long-standing diplomatic relations anchored on historical ties, trade, cultural exchange and regional cooperation. Both countries also collaborate on issues including border security, energy partnerships and broader economic integration within West Africa.
The Nigerian Presidency said the participation of the Vice President reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening regional stability and advancing the goals of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Since assuming office, Tinubu has consistently called for deeper cooperation and democratic consolidation across the sub-region amid ongoing political and security challenges.
Shettima is accompanied by senior government officials and aides and is expected to return to Nigeria after the inauguration ceremonies.