Author: Ousmane Tandja

President Romuald Wadagni of Bénin has made history by appointing Captain Elvire Toupé as his new aide-de-camp, a groundbreaking move in the country’s institutional landscape. A pivotal shift in security protocols, this appointment places a woman at the heart of the president’s inner circle, underscoring a commitment to gender inclusivity in leadership roles. Born on July 21, 1990, in Porto-Novo, Captain Toupé’s journey to this prestigious position reflects both military rigor and academic distinction. She was among the pioneering cohort of the Enfants de troupe at the Lycée militaire des…

On the occasion of Me Abdoulaye Wade’s 100th birthday, Ousmane Sonko, President of Senegal’s National Assembly, paid a heartfelt tribute to the former head of state, describing him as a ‘venerable father of Senegalese democracy.’ The tribute was shared on the X platform, where Sonko reflected on Wade’s extraordinary political journey. The coincidence of Wade’s centennial with the Muslim holiday of Tabaski meant that no grand national celebration could take place, Sonko noted. Yet, he emphasized that millions of Senegalese would honor him in their own quiet ways—through sincere prayers…

Niger’s diplomatic storm: Spain withdraws consul amid Schengen visa scandal The Spanish government has quietly but decisively recalled its consul in Niamey following the dismantling of a lucrative Schengen visa trafficking network operating in Niger. Each fraudulent visa was sold for over 2.5 million West African CFA francs, exposing a state-backed corruption scheme that reaches deep into the highest circles of the ruling military junta. The scandal has cast a harsh light on the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP), particularly the inner circle of its third-ranking…

Bénin strengthens presidential security with new defence advisor The President of the Republic, Romuald Wadagni, has appointed Air Force General Bertin Bada as Advisor to the President on Defence and Security matters. This decision, formalised in Decree No. 2026-324, marks a strategic move in the ongoing restructuring of the country’s security architecture. This appointment aligns with a series of decrees issued the same day, aimed at reshaping key presidential structures, including the Republican Guard and the military cabinet. The move underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing national security coordination and…

The 2026-2027 Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 seasons are drawing to a close, and one final question remains: which club will secure the last spot in France’s top flight? This Friday, May 29, Nice and Saint-Étienne face off in the second leg of their decisive playoff showdown. The victor will claim a place in Ligue 1, while the loser will be relegated to Ligue 2. a tight first leg ends 0-0 The opening match at Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium concluded in a forgettable stalemate. Both teams struggled to create clear chances, with…