New training cycle kicks off at Porto-Novo’s police academy

Porto-Novo’s National Police Higher School recently hosted a high-profile event marking the launch of advanced preparatory training for three prestigious security credentials: the Brevet d’Études Supérieures de Sécurité (BESS), the Diplôme d’État-Major des Forces de Sécurité (Demes), and the Diplôme Spécial d’État-Major des Forces de Sécurité.

The ceremonial opening, held on May 14, 2026, brought together top-tier stakeholders including the Inspector General of Police, second-class Kokou Brice Allowanou, who serves as the Director General of the Republican Police. The gathering also included military leaders, government officials, police executives, and academic representatives from across Benin.

Building a visionary security elite

According to Commissioner Gilles Yekpe, Director of the National Police Higher School, the training programs are designed to equip participants with the skills needed to assume high-level roles in the security sector. “This session features a team of elite instructors—nationally and internationally recognized experts—dedicated to guiding your success,” he stated. “The curriculum covers critical areas such as policing strategy, human and operational resource management, leadership, domestic security, and cross-border security challenges.”

Leadership and professional excellence in focus

Inspector General Kokou Brice Allowanou emphasized the transformative potential of these advanced courses. “These training programs offer a rare opportunity to refine your expertise, cultivate strong leadership qualities, and prepare for tomorrow’s responsibilities with confidence,” he said. He urged participants to embrace the program with discipline, commitment, and perseverance.

The event concluded with a keynote lecture delivered by the Dean of the Faculty of Law and Political Science at the University of Parakou. The session explored the intersection of the rule of law, republican policing, and evolving security challenges.

A step toward modernizing Benin’s security institutions

The launch of these advanced training courses underscores Benin’s commitment to strengthening the professionalism of its Republican Police and fostering a new generation of highly skilled security professionals. It reflects the government’s broader vision to modernize the nation’s core institutions and enhance its capacity to address contemporary security threats.