Beninese Defense Minister Receives Algerian Training and Expertise Offer

Algeria has formally proposed sharing its operational expertise and providing military training to Benin, an initiative aimed at strengthening the Beninese Armed Forces' capacity to counter asymmetric threats. The offer was extended by Algeria’s Ambassador, Ammar Hadjar, during a meeting with Benin's Minister Delegate for National Defense, Gildas Agonkan, on September 24, 2026, in Cotonou.

Discussions between the Algerian ambassador and the Beninese defense minister focused on potential areas including training, skill development, and establishing a more structured framework for military cooperation between the two nations. The Beninese side reportedly expressed significant interest in receiving sustained support, leveraging Algeria's extensive experience in effectively combating armed groups.

Minister Agonkan advocated for the development of comprehensive framework agreements that would cover defense policy and enhance the interoperability of forces. This Algerian offer comes as Benin seeks to reinforce its human, technical, and logistical resources, particularly in its northern region, which faces armed attacks near its borders with Burkina Faso and Niger. While no date for the signing of a formal agreement has been announced, this initiative underscores Algeria's commitment to fostering regional stability and security through collaborative defense efforts.