A week after taking office, President Romuald Wadagni has begun shaping his vision for the next seven years by assembling a high-level advisory team. Blending technical expertise with symbolic appointments, his approach balances rigorous governance with inclusive representation.

Sworn in on May 24, 2026, President Romuald Wadagni moved swiftly to establish a presidential cabinet designed to navigate the complexities of the coming years. Within eight days, a series of decrees structured a team that would combine technical proficiency with robust security measures. The selections reflect a deliberate strategy: maintaining operational excellence while incorporating unifying symbols. The profiles chosen—ranging from experienced technocrats to historically significant figures—underscore a governance style rooted in methodical planning and broad inclusivity.

Captain Elvire Toupé: Breaking barriers in presidential security

First woman aide-de-camp in Beninese history

Captain Elvire Toupé’s appointment as aide-de-camp to the president marks a historic milestone for Bénin. As the first woman to hold this critical position since independence in 1960, she shatters a long-standing glass ceiling within the Beninese Armed Forces (FAB). This role is far from ceremonial; it demands meticulous oversight of the president’s security agenda, access control, and coordination of close protection measures around the clock. Beyond the symbolic resonance with the legendary Amazones, Elvire Toupé’s selection highlights the growing recognition of women’s excellence in high-stakes military leadership, paving the way for future generations of female officers in sovereign roles.

General Bertin Bada: Strategic aerial command for national security

Architect of defense policy

By decree N° 2026-324 dated May 28, 2026, Air Force General Bertin Bada was appointed to lead the president’s Defense and Security Council. This position requires deep insight into geopolitical challenges and regional threats. By appointing the former Military Cabinet Chief of his predecessor, President Wadagni ensures continuity in strategic vision while leveraging cutting-edge surveillance systems. General Bada’s responsibilities include coordinating national defense policies and advising the president on territorial protection measures. His appointment reinforces the administration’s commitment to security as a cornerstone of governance.

Fiacre Vidjingninou: Crafting the presidency’s narrative

Chief architect of presidential communication

Fiacre Vidjingninou, named Director of Presidential Communication by decree N° 2026-325 on May 28, 2026, becomes the official voice of the executive. A seasoned media strategist with extensive experience in both national and international landscapes, he is tasked with shaping the public image of the Wadagni presidency. In an era defined by digital transformation and the demand for transparency, his role demands a dynamic information strategy, proactive media relations, and cohesive messaging to foster trust between the presidency and the Beninese people.

General Djimon Dieudonné Tévoèdjrè: Steadfast guardian of the republic

A symbol of continuity

Decree N° 2026-323, also dated May 28, 2026, confirms General Djimon Dieudonné Tévoèdjrè’s position as Commandant of the Republican Guard. This reappointment underscores President Wadagni’s full confidence in the officer’s leadership. Tasked with protecting the president, senior officials, and key republican institutions, General Tévoèdjrè embodies stability and operational excellence. His command ensures continuous modernization of protection tactics and fortified security around the Head of State and sensitive sites.

Gaston Dossouhoui and Modeste T. Kérékou: Political liaisons at the heart of governance

Bridging the presidency with political stakeholders

Appointed Special Advisors for Political Affairs by decree N° 2026-328 on May 28, 2026, Gaston Cossi Dossouhoui and Modeste Tihounté Kérékou bring extensive on-the-ground experience and acute political awareness. Their role is to act as conduits between the presidency, political forces, civil society, and local governments. In a seven-year term fraught with challenges, this duo will be pivotal in easing tensions, strengthening the administration’s political base, and aligning reforms with the aspirations of the Beninese population.

Colonel Major Chahounka: The military backbone of the presidency

Strategic interface between the president and defense institutions

Colonel Major Mètohokan Gabin Abel Chahounka assumes leadership of the Presidential Military Cabinet with decree N° 2026-322 on May 28, 2026. This pivotal position serves as the permanent liaison between the Head of State, who is Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and the Ministry of Defense as well as the General Staff. Colonel Chahounka will oversee the transmission of presidential directives, monitor ongoing operations, and manage administrative affairs related to military personnel assigned to the presidency. His technical expertise and administrative rigor are critical to ensuring operational efficiency and rapid responsiveness within the state’s security apparatus.