Over two million citizens of the Benin Republic residing in Nigeria are expected to participate in the upcoming national election scheduled for April 12, 2026.
Nigeria is among ten countries where Beninois in the Diaspora will cast their votes, with polling set to take place in Lagos, Abuja, and Ibadan, according to the Benin Republic Charge d’Affaires in Nigeria, Bernice Gnansounou Bankole.
The ruling coalition has nominated the country’s Minister of Finance and Economy, Romuald Wadagni, as its presidential candidate, with Vice President Mariam Chabi Talata as his running mate.
Speaking at a sensitisation programme for Beninois in Abuja, Mrs. Bankole said the elections will be held at the embassy in Abuja, the consulate general in Lagos, and the honorary consulate in Ibadan, Oyo State. She urged all citizens to come out in large numbers to vote.
Hormone Younkpati, former president of Beninois residents in Nigeria, encouraged voters to support Wadagni and Talata, citing their ability to continue the country’s transformation. Younkpati highlighted that the current administration under President Patrice Talon has made life easier for the Diaspora, with online access to administrative documents reducing the need to travel back home.
He emphasized that the Benin Republic has become a model of democracy in West Africa and that the ruling team has significantly advanced the nation’s progress over the past decade. Younkpati praised Wadagni for his experience and leadership as Finance Minister and encouraged the Diaspora to vote for continuity to sustain the country’s development and economic growth.
“Change is not just about politics; it’s about evolution. With the current team, the economy has improved, placing Benin as the 17th among West African economies in 2020,” he said, urging voters to participate fully on April 12.
