Benin Armed Forces: Bertin Bada promoted to the rank of Air Army General

The official rank-pinning ceremony for General of the Army Bertin Bada took place in the afternoon of Monday, February 9, 2026, at the Ministry of National Defense.

On this occasion, the senior officer was promoted to the rank of Air Army General, the highest rank in the military hierarchy.

This historic promotion makes Bertin Bada the first Beninese military officer to reach this level of command within the Beninese Armed Forces, underscoring a professional career marked by steadfastness, discipline, and high responsibilities.

Having served since 2016 as the President’s Military Chief of Staff, the now Air Army General becomes, with this distinction, the highest-ranking officer in the Beninese armed forces.

This elevation results from the decision taken by the Council of Ministers on December 26, 2025, under the presidency of Head of State Patrice Talon, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

Through this promotion, the Beninese authorities reaffirm their commitment to valuing merit, professional excellence, and leadership within the military, in a context marked by rising security challenges.