Bénin and Niger set up expert committee to reopen border in 15 days

The diplomatic thaw between Bénin and Niger has reached a decisive milestone. Following an official working visit to Niamey on June 2, 2026, by Romuald Wadagni, President of Bénin, the two neighboring nations have jointly established an expert committee tasked with evaluating the conditions for reopening their shared border.

The announcement was made in a joint communiqué issued after high-level talks between Romuald Wadagni and Niger’s leader, Abdourahamane Tiani. The committee has been given a strict 15-day deadline to assess existing barriers and propose concrete measures to remove them.

Strengthening bilateral ties through shared priorities

The discussions unfolded in an atmosphere of mutual respect and collaboration, covering key areas such as regional security, economic integration, and cross-border cooperation. Both heads of state underscored the deep historical bonds that have long united Bénin and Niger, vowing to deepen these ties for the benefit of their citizens.

They also emphasized the importance of revitalizing existing cooperation frameworks, including the regular convening of the Niger-Bénin Joint Cooperation Commission, to ensure sustained progress in shared goals.

Security challenges drive joint action

With persistent terrorist threats looming across the Sahel and West Africa, the leaders highlighted the critical need for enhanced collaboration. They reiterated their commitment to combating transnational crime and terrorism, which continue to undermine economic stability and social cohesion in the region.

Border reopening takes center stage

The closure of the Bénin-Niger border—implemented amid regional tensions following events in July 2023—has had far-reaching consequences on trade flows and human mobility. Restoring normalcy remains a top priority for both governments.

The formation of the expert committee sends a powerful message of political resolve to gradually normalize relations. Within the next two weeks, their findings will guide the two administrations in determining the practical steps needed for a phased border reopening.

At the conclusion of the visit, Romuald Wadagni extended a formal invitation to Abdourahamane Tiani to undertake an official state visit to Bénin. This reciprocal gesture reflects the shared determination to build a new era of trust and partnership between the two nations.