In a message penned by outgoing Beninese President Patrice Talon on May 21, 2026, he expressed heartfelt thanks to the people of Benin, “for the demanding path we dared to traverse together over the past decade. For the challenges overcome, the reforms implemented, and the major projects launched to strengthen our nation and align public action with socio-economic development.”

His full statement:

My dear compatriots,

This Sunday, May 24, 2026, our elected President, Mr. Romuald Wadagni, will be sworn in, formally assuming office. From that moment, he will bear the delicate and inspiring mission of guiding our nation toward greater progress and collective—and individual—well-being.

In this regard, I wish to reiterate my warmest wishes for success in the tasks that lie ahead for him over the next seven years.

As I prepare to leave office, I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I am deeply proud of the journey we’ve undertaken together over the past decade—a journey marked by challenges overcome, reforms implemented, and transformative projects launched to bolster our state and place public action at the service of our socio-economic growth.

Surely, the path has not always been easy. Often, it has been fraught with obstacles—but that too has been part of its allure and has fueled our determination.

Looking back, we can, along with the rest of the world that has not hesitated to acknowledge our progress, see how far we’ve come. Our efforts and sacrifices are gradually bearing fruit. This is something we can all take pride in—Beninese citizens from cities, rural areas, and the diaspora, young and old alike.

Having led this remarkable journey and served our country has been a great honor for me. My gratitude toward Benin and each of you is boundless.

I would be remiss if I did not highlight the invaluable role of a remarkable woman who stood by me with affection and patience, whose mentorship was instrumental. I refer to Mrs. Claudine Gbénagnon Kpoviessi TALON, whom I wholeheartedly thank.

I also extend my deepest appreciation to all those who surrounded me with love, friendship, and unwavering support—each of whom helped me give my best.

As I hand over the reins to President Romuald Wadagni, I share with you my conviction that under his leadership, our nation will take even greater strides toward fulfilling its destiny: becoming a great nation.

To achieve this, I have no doubt that, drawing on our accomplishments and driven by an unshakable will to go further, we will unite around him and with him, in the supreme interest of Benin, to conquer new frontiers of progress that bring well-being, pride, and prosperity to all.

Long live the Republic!

Long live Benin!