In a passionate address before a large crowd in Parakou, Benin’s presidential candidate, supported by four major political parties, outlined his vision for national unity and the empowerment of the country’s youth.
During the inauguration ceremony, Wadagni reflected on his personal journey, recalling childhood memories traveling with his father across the Borgou region.
“Aboard a vehicle commonly called a 404, which often had to be pushed to get it going, we had to change a wheel on almost every trip,” he said.
His speech highlighted both the emotional significance of returning to his hometown and the broader progress the nation has made over the past decade.
Wadagni paid tribute to President Patrice Talon for his leadership, noting the transformative impact on Benin’s development. “Thanks to your leadership and vision, Benin has advanced more than any other African country over the past nine years.
You have restored pride to our people and shown that vision, leadership, work, and efforts combined make anything possible,” he said.
The candidate expressed gratitude to the four supporting parties – National Renaissance, Moele Benin, the Republican Bloc, and the Progressive Union for Renewal – and their leaders. He emphasized that the moment was not only about political alignment but a celebration of the country’s unity and shared aspirations.
Central to Wadagni’s address was his focus on Benin’s youth, who comprise nearly 70% of the population.
“Youth are our greatest wealth.
They are our strength and our future,” he declared. He committed to transforming young people’s energy into opportunities and success, promising a future in which every Beninese can pursue education, entrepreneurship, and personal development in freedom and security.
Wadagni also highlighted his running mate, Vice-President Mariam Chabi Talata Zimé Yérima, as a symbol of gender equality and generational partnership.
“Her presence at my side is a symbol of symbiosis and the unbreakable bond between generations, assets necessary for building a united nation,” he said.
The candidate concluded with a solemn pledge to lead with integrity, courage, and consistency, promising to transform Benin’s progress into tangible benefits for all citizens. “Together we will write a new page in our history.
A story that enables every young person, every family, to build their future,” he affirmed.
The ceremony underscored a message of hope, unity, and youth empowerment, positioning Wadagni as a candidate focused on continuity, development, and national cohesion.
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