In a historic move for Benin’s institutional landscape, President Romuald Wadagni has appointed Captain Elvire Toupé as his aide de camp, a position she will occupy at the heart of the presidential security apparatus. This groundbreaking decision marks the first time a woman holds this role in the country’s history.

Born on July 21, 1990, in Porto-Novo, Captain Toupé has built a reputation for military discipline and academic excellence. She was part of the inaugural class of the Lycée militaire des jeunes filles Général Mathieu Kérékou in Natitingou, a school dedicated to nurturing young female leaders in the armed forces.

Her military journey began in earnest at the École nationale des officiers de Toffo, where she trained from 2012 to 2014. Upon graduation, she earned her infantry platoon leader certification and later added a degree in medical imaging to her credentials. Though she briefly worked in the medical field, her passion for military service brought her back to active duty.

Promoted to the rank of captain in 2021, she now stands as the highest-ranking female officer in Benin’s infantry. Her leadership and expertise have earned her recognition across the armed forces, paving the way for her latest appointment.

Captain Toupé’s professional experience extends beyond national borders. She received advanced training at the Caribbean Institute for Professional Military Education in Jamaica and served as a gender military advisor with MINUSMA from 2017 to 2018, contributing to peacekeeping efforts in a challenging environment.

Fluent in both French and English, she joined the Garde républicaine in 2022, where she previously oversaw security protocols for the Cour des comptes. Her appointment as presidential aide de camp underscores her dedication and the trust placed in her by the highest echelons of Benin’s leadership.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst