It's time for Benin's President Patrice Talon to say goodbye. He will leave office on Sunday, May 24th. On Thursday, May 21st, he addressed his compatriots via his digital channels.

Initially, the current occupant of the Marina Palace reminded everyone that his successor, Romuald Wadagni, will be sworn in on May 24, 2026, in Cotonou. This inauguration will mark his formal entry into office. "From then on, he will have the delicate and inspiring mission of leading our country towards greater progress and collective and individual well-being," stated Patrice Talon, who offered him his "best wishes for great success in the work he will undertake over the next seven years."

Under his leadership, Benin will take further great steps towards fulfilling its goal of becoming a great nation.

He stated his conviction that under his leadership, "Benin will take further great strides towards fulfilling its ambition of becoming a great nation." He therefore called for a united front around Mr. Wadagni, "to achieve significant progress that will generate well-being, pride, and prosperity for all."

The statesman also expressed his gratitude to his compatriots who allowed him to preside over the destiny of Benin for the past 10 years.

“As I step down from this position, I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart and tell you how proud I am of you for the demanding path we have dared to take together over the past ten years,

"For the challenges met, the reforms carried out, the major projects undertaken to strengthen our State and put public action at the service of its socio-economic development," wrote Patrice Talon.

"Being the team leader of this wonderful adventure, having served our country, was a great honor for me."

He acknowledges that "the path has not always been easy to follow, (since it has) often been strewn with obstacles." But that is "also what made it so charming and galvanized us," he asserts.

Now, the leader continued, the efforts and sacrifices made during this decade are "gradually bearing fruit." This is to the credit of all Beninese men and women, stated Patrice Talon, who once again expressed his gratitude to all his compatriots.

“Being the team leader of this great adventure, having served our country, was a great honor for me. Therefore, my gratitude to Benin and to each of you is boundless,” he wrote, before paying tribute to his wife.

"The coaching (from my wife) was a great help to me."

“By calling on you to witness this, I feel it my duty to acknowledge the invaluable role of a remarkable woman who has supported me with affection and patience, and whose coaching has been of immense benefit. I am referring to Mrs. Claudine Gbénagnon Kpoviessi, wife of Talon, whom I thank from the bottom of my heart,” declared the leader, also expressing his “gratitude to all those who have surrounded me with their love, friendship, and support.” All of which, he said, enabled him to give his very best.