Why is Cotonou considered Benin’s de facto capital?

While Porto-Novo is the official capital of Benin, Cotonou is considered the country's de facto capital for several key reasons:

• Economic Hub: Cotonou is the largest urban center in Benin and serves as the nation's primary economic hub.12
• Government Presence: Although Porto-Novo is the administrative capital, many government functions are located in Cotonou, and the country’s president and most government ministers reside there.12
• Infrastructure and Trade: Cotonou is home to Benin’s chief port, which features modern artificial deepwater facilities that serve both Benin and neighboring Togo. It also serves as the starting point for the country's major railway and hosts an international airport that connects Benin to the rest of Africa and Europe.123

It is important to distinguish this city from Benin City, which is located in Nigeria and is not the capital of the Republic of Benin.4