In a historic stride toward strengthening Pan-African unity and regional collaboration, the International President of the Pan-African Dialogue Institute (TPADI), Associate Professor. Effiong Udo, arrived in the Republic of Benin to formally inaugurate the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 2026 Pan-African Dialogue Conference.
Prof. Udo was accompanied by a distinguished delegation, including Dr. Daniel Umoh, Programme Coordinator for the Commission on African Politics, Governance, and International Relations, and Prof. Victor Akpan, Diaspora Representative of the Institute. Their visit marks a strategic milestone as preparations intensify for what promises to be one of Africa’s most impactful intellectual gatherings.
A Conference That Continues to Shape Africa’s Future
Scheduled as part of the Africa Day celebrations in 2026, the upcoming Pan-African Dialogue Conference is positioned to be a transformative event—uniting continental visionaries, scholars, policymakers, investors, and cultural leaders.
This biennial conference, which debuted in Nigeria in 2024 with over 2,000 participants from around the world, has quickly become a vital platform for discussing Africa’s pressing challenges and emerging opportunities. From governance and economic reform to cultural revival and regional integration, the conference sets the tone for strategic dialogue across the continent.
The inauguration of the LOC in Benin represents a significant step toward ensuring seamless planning, strong participation, and high-level engagement.
Strategic Engagements in Benin
During the visit, Prof. Udo held a series of impactful meetings with:
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Thought leaders
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Business executives
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Civil society organizations
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Cultural advocates
These discussions centered on regional cooperation, economic development, and cultural exchange, reinforcing Benin’s growing role in advancing Pan-African cooperation. The engagements strengthened bilateral ties between Benin and other African nations, setting the stage for deeper collaboration in the lead-up to the conference.
A Grand Inauguration Ceremony in Ouidah
The LOC inauguration was hosted at the Center for the Development and Exchange of Indigenous Ideas (IDEE) in the historic city of Ouidah. The event attracted dignitaries, scholars, and influential figures from across Africa.
In his keynote address, Prof. Udo underscored the profound significance of dialogue in shaping the continent’s future, noting that Africa’s progress depends on open conversation, shared vision, and united action.
Meet the Local Organizing Committee
The newly inaugurated LOC is composed of respected academics and professionals, including:
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Prof. Sessou Kouassi Roger – Chairperson
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Prof. Aigbe A. Marcelin
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Prof. Dansou Alphonse
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And other distinguished members
Key Responsibilities of the LOC
Under the leadership of Prof. Sessou, the Committee will oversee:
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Coordination with African governments and global delegates
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Pre-conference engagements to mobilize stakeholders
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Logistics, accommodation, and security for participants
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Media, communication, and global outreach campaigns
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Facilitation of discussions around the conference’s central themes
Their work is crucial in ensuring that the 2026 conference becomes a seamless, inclusive, and impactful Pan-African event.
Broader Impact Beyond the Conference
The President’s visit is expected to catalyze deeper diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties between Benin and other African nations. Opportunities for:
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Trade expansion
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Investment partnerships
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Cultural exchange
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Academic collaboration
are already emerging as direct outcomes of the engagements made during the trip.
Preparations Move Into High Gear
With the LOC now fully constituted, preparations will intensify in the coming months. Key next steps include:
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High-level strategic planning sessions
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Fundraising and sponsorship mobilization
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Global promotional campaigns across media and digital platforms
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Development of digital networking tools for participants
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Onboarding of partners, volunteers, and supporting institutions
All these efforts are geared toward delivering a world-class conference that will shape Africa’s developmental trajectory.
A Vision Rooted in Knowledge and Cooperation
Before concluding his mission, Prof. Udo visited leading academic and cultural institutions in Benin, emphasizing the crucial role of research, education, and youth development in building a stronger Africa. His visit left behind a wave of optimism, renewed commitment, and shared determination among partners in the region.
Conclusion: A New Dawn for Pan-African Dialogue
The inauguration of the Local Organizing Committee in Benin marks a defining step toward a brighter African future. With preparations underway for the 2026 Pan-African Dialogue Conference, anticipation continues to grow across the continent.
The countdown to a landmark gathering—one that will shape conversations on governance, economic empowerment, unity, and cultural renaissance—has officially begun.
Africa is ready.
Benin is ready.
TPADI is ready.
And together, a new chapter in the Pan-African story is unfolding.