Hundreds of Nigeriens took to the streets to protest against the presence of US troops in Niger Republic.
Niger has historically played a significant role in the US and French efforts to counter jihadists in West Africa, resulting in the deployment of troops from both countries. However, following the military takeover in Niger, the new government severed ties with France and declared the termination of a defense agreement with the United States, alleging imposition and claiming the US troop presence as illegal.
Despite an agreement reached between US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Niamey’s Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, to withdraw the troops, the US government has yet to execute the withdrawal.
The failure to act has spurred demonstrations organized by a coalition of 24 civil society associations that have supported the regime since last year’s coup. Protesters voiced their grievances, emphasizing that the presence of US troops was imposed on the state and provided no tangible benefits. With over a thousand soldiers stationed in the country and a $100 million base for operating drones, many question the effectiveness of these resources in benefiting Nigeriens.
Banners reading “This is Agadez, not Washington, US army go home,” echoed the sentiments of the demonstrators.
Issouf Emoud, leader of the M62 Movement in the town, reiterated the call for the departure of American soldiers and had previously organized protests demanding the withdrawal of French forces, which occurred last year.
Civil society leader Amobi Arandishu stated that the US military presence in Niger failed to enhance security, with various foreign interests converging on the region without addressing the root causes of insecurity.
In contrast, Russian military instructors arrived in Niger earlier this month, signaling a shift in alliances. This move follows discussions between military ruler General Abdourahamane Tiani and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The demand for the US to withdraw troops represents a strategic gain for Russia, which has increasingly focused on Africa, supporting military regimes in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso.
Meanwhile, Niger continues to grapple with violence from Boko Haram jihadists and their rivals, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), particularly in the southeastern region of Diffa near Nigeria.
