Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have taken concrete steps toward implementing a bilateral economic cooperation agreement, building on commitments made during the inaugural West Africa Economic Summit held in Abuja this past June.
The renewed momentum follows a two-day high-level meeting between officials from both countries, held in Cotonou from August 1 to 2, where the framework for collaborative economic initiatives was formally outlined.
According to the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the move aligns with the broader agenda of deepening regional integration across West Africa, in line with the goals set by ECOWAS.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, praised the initiative as evidence of meaningful progress, attributing the breakthrough to President Bola Tinubu’s vision for a more interconnected and economically cohesive sub-region.
She noted that beyond political will, the relationship between Nigeria and Benin is underpinned by longstanding cultural bonds, trade ties, and a shared historical heritage that continue to shape cooperation between both nations.
According to the statement, Odumegwu-Ojukwu also congratulated Benin on its 65th Independence anniversary, noting that it was fitting that the dialogue was taking place during a moment of national pride.
She stated that the bilateral relationship had evolved over the years. However, she noted that cooperation had remained a constant in addressing shared challenges.
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Our shared successes affirm a truth we must never lose sight of: that cooperation, not conflict; dialogue, not suspicion, remain our best tools for overcoming obstacles,” the minister said.
According to her, the visit of the Nigerian delegation was more than just technical discussions.
She also highlighted the increasing frequency of high-level engagement between the two countries, saying, “The frequency and depth of our engagements at the highest political levels underscore the strategic nature of our relationship.
“The frequency and depth of our engagements at the highest political levels underscore the strategic nature of our relationship. The recent efforts of Presidents Bola Tinubu and Patrice Talon to recalibrate our bilateral cooperation, particularly in the areas of trade and border management, demonstrate a shared political will to resolve longstanding issues and usher in a new era of mutual prosperity.
She noted that both presidents had demonstrated remarkable leadership in advancing the partnership, adding that their engagements — particularly at the West Africa Economic Summit — had reaffirmed a shared commitment to trade, security, and economic transformation.
Referencing President Tinubu’s comments at the summit, Odumegwu-Ojukwu recalled that he had described Nigeria and Benin as “more than twins,” urging both countries to demonstrate that regional integration was achievable. She affirmed that the discussions held since July 31 were a clear continuation of that vision.