FRESH efforts to restore diplomatic and economic relations between Niger and Benin gathered momentum over the weekend as senior officials from both countries held high-level discussions in Cotonou aimed at accelerating the normalisation of ties.
The talks followed a visit to Niger earlier this month by Benin’s new president, a move widely seen as a significant step toward rebuilding relations between the neighbouring West African nations after years of strained diplomatic engagement.
News Point Nigeria reports that relations between Niger and Benin have remained tense since the military seized power in Niger in July 2023 and subsequently closed the country’s border with Benin, a decision that significantly disrupted trade and cross-border activities.
Following the coup, authorities in Niamey accused Cotonou of hosting French military bases, supporting efforts to destabilise the new military-led government and serving as a relay point for terrorist groups responsible for attacks within Niger.
The military administration in Niger also severed ties with France, its traditional ally and former colonial power, in the aftermath of the takeover, marking a major shift in the country’s foreign policy orientation.
Like several countries across the region, both Niger and Benin continue to grapple with persistent jihadist violence, making security cooperation a critical issue in efforts to rebuild trust and strengthen bilateral relations.
However, diplomatic momentum received a boost following the June 2 visit by Benin’s Romuald Wadagni to Niger, which revitalised efforts to re-establish formal relations and address long-standing grievances between the two countries.
As part of the renewed engagement, newly established joint expert committees met on Saturday to continue discussions focused on reopening the shared border and finding lasting solutions to the diplomatic crisis.
The talks covered a wide range of issues, including security and defence cooperation, diplomatic and legal affairs, as well as economic relations between the two nations.
One delegate involved in the discussions reportedly described the reopening of the border as a “done deal,” signalling growing optimism that both sides are close to reaching a breakthrough agreement.
The discussions are expected to continue on Monday as officials work toward finalising measures aimed at fully restoring cooperation, boosting trade, strengthening security collaboration and normalising relations between the two neighbouring countries.
