Benin: recruitment and training of 1,850 young people for the Armed Forces

The Beninese government is launching a large recruitment and training program for 1,850 young people for the benefit of the Beninese Armed Forces (FAB), spread over 2025 and 2026. This initiative aims to strengthen military personnel and increase the national army’s operational capabilities, with particular attention to technical skills.

National defense is being strengthened. In total, 1,850 young people will be recruited and trained to join the Beninese Armed Forces, in a context marked by increasing security challenges. According to the arrangements announced by the Council of Ministers on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 850 recruits will be enlisted for 2025, compared with 1,000 planned for 2026.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of the profiles sought is a strategic focus of this recruitment. For each of the two years, 100 candidates will be selected on the basis of qualifications to meet specific technical needs within the army. These include 40 automotive mechanics, 40 drivers of light and heavy vehicles, 10 automotive electricians and 10 specialists in maintenance of generators and solar installations.

This targeted strengthening of skills reflects the authorities’ desire to modernize the defense apparatus and improve the FAB’s logistical and operational capacity, essential to the effectiveness of missions in the field.

To ensure the operation’s success, the ministers in charge of the relevant portfolios have been instructed to take all necessary measures for the proper conduct of recruitment tests and training sessions. The stated objective is to ensure a transparent, rigorous process that complies with the standards required by the military institution.