History

This Order was instituted in 1960 as the National Order of Dahomey. Its name was later changed to the National Order of Benin in 1986 to reflect the name of the Republic as it was established in 1975. It is conferred upon individuals in recognition of exceptional service to the nation and its citizens.

The Order is classified into three models based on changes associated with different regimes. The first model was conferred in the Republic of Dahomey and features a reverse inscription that translates to "Republic of Dahomey, Fraternity, Justice, Labour." The second model was conferred in the People's Republic of Benin and features obverse initials that stand for "République Populaire du Bénin" (People's Republic of Benin) and a reverse inscription that translates to "People's Republic of Benin." The third model has been conferred in the Republic of Benin since the collapse of the communist regime and features an obverse inscription that translates to "Republic of Benin, Fraternity, Justice, Labour."

The Commander is identical to the Grand Officer, however only the Grand Officer is worn with a Breast Star. There is an annual limit of 20 Commanders.