The Conseil National du Patronat de la Presse et de l’Audiovisuel du Bénin (CNPA-Bénin) has elected a new bureau directeur, with Clément Adéchian as its president. The election took place during an Assemblée Générale élective held on September 25, 2026, at the Maison des Médias in Cotonou, Benin. Adéchian was chosen unanimously by acclamation to lead the organization for the next five years, succeeding Seth Evariste Hodonou, whose term ended in 2026.
The new bureau directeur consists of 19 members and will serve until 2031. Clément Adéchian will be assisted by several vice-presidents, including Chérif Riwanou, who was elected as Vice-President in charge of written press and new media. Riwanou, Director General of the Matin Libre group and former Deputy Treasurer General of the organization, brings his experience in managing press companies and knowledge of the sector's challenges.
Before the election, the Assemblée Générale examined the report of the outgoing team. Outgoing President Seth Evariste Hodonou highlighted the CNPA's commitment to defending the interests of press companies and maintaining a constructive dialogue with institutions, particularly the HAAC. He mentioned that the organization had worked to defend the interests of its companies, maintain dialogue with institutions, and accompany the profound changes in the sector.
The outgoing vice-president, Brice Ogoubiyi, cited some of the achievements of the previous administration, including obtaining a legal receipt of existence, sanitizing the corporation, and advocacy actions for media financing. These accomplishments demonstrate the CNPA's efforts to strengthen its position and promote the interests of its members.
In his first speech, Clément Adéchian emphasized the need for economic survival, prioritizing the economic viability of press companies. He intends to intensify advocacy with the state for better financing, strengthen solidarity between organs, and accelerate the professionalization of the sector. Adéchian's leadership aims to make CNPA-Bénin a credible and unique interlocutor for press companies in dealings with public authorities and international partners.
The new leadership of CNPA-Bénin faces significant challenges, including the growing precariousness of press companies, digital transformation, and the scarcity of advertising resources. To address these issues, Adéchian and his team will need to engage in effective dialogue with stakeholders and find innovative solutions to ensure the sustainability of press companies in Benin.
The election of Clément Adéchian and Chérif Riwanou marks a new chapter for CNPA-Bénin, with a focus on continuity and renewal. The new bureau directeur will work to build on the achievements of the previous administration while addressing the evolving needs of the media sector in Benin.
Key points
- Clément Adéchian was elected as the new president of CNPA-Bénin for a five-year term.
- The new bureau directeur consists of 19 members and will serve until 2031.
- Adéchian's priority is the economic viability of press companies, focusing on better financing, solidarity, and professionalization.
