Benin makes history with first female presidential aide de camp

In a groundbreaking move for Bénin, President Romuald Wadagni has appointed Captain Elvire Toupé as his new aide de camp, marking the first time a woman holds this critical security role within the presidential entourage.

This historic appointment underscores Bénin’s commitment to gender inclusivity in high-ranking military positions, placing a highly skilled officer at the president’s immediate side for strategic decision-making.

Born on July 21, 1990, in Porto-Novo, Captain Toupé’s military journey began at the Lycée militaire des jeunes filles Général Mathieu Kérékou in Natitingou, where she was part of the institution’s inaugural class of female military students. Her academic and disciplinary excellence laid the foundation for a distinguished career.

After completing officer training at the École nationale des officiers de Toffo between 2012 and 2014, she earned her infantry section leader certification. Though she briefly worked in medical imaging—holding a degree in the field—she returned to active military service to pursue her lifelong passion.

A trailblazer in Bénin’s armed forces

Her dedication and expertise led to a promotion to captain in 2021, cementing her status as the highest-ranking female officer in Bénin’s infantry. Beyond national borders, her professional experience spans international missions, including a role as a military gender advisor with the MINUSMA from 2017 to 2018.

Fluent in both French and English, Captain Toupé joined the Garde républicaine in 2022, where she previously served as the security chief for the Cour des comptes. Her bilingual skills and global exposure make her an invaluable asset to the presidential team.