Niger’s ruling junta has abruptly revoked a military accord with the United States, casting a shadow over their long-standing cooperation in combating terrorism in the region.
The announcement came directly from junta spokesperson Colonel Amadou Abdramane, who aired grievances over a recent visit by American officials.
The decision to revoke the accord, which permitted US military personnel and civilian staff from the Department of Defense to operate within Niger, was declared effective immediately.
Colonel Abdramane cited procedural breaches during the visit of US officials, led by Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee and General Michael Langley, commander of the US Africa Command.
Abdramane criticized the lack of diplomatic protocol, alleging that Niger had not been properly informed about the composition of the delegation, the visit’s schedule, or its agenda.
The discussions reportedly centred on Niger’s military transition, bilateral cooperation, and the country’s choice of allies in the fight against extremist groups such as al Qaeda and Islamic State.
According to Reuters, a US official has acknowledged that discussions were frank but emphasized ongoing communication with Niger’s ruling military council, known as the CNSP.
Niger’s decision to revoke the military accord echoes similar actions taken by neighbouring countries like Mali and Burkina Faso, which expelled French and European forces.
The junta spokesperson expressed regret over the perceived infringement on Niger’s sovereignty, accusing the American delegation of attempting to dictate the nation’s partnerships in counterterrorism efforts.
Colonel Abdramane also condemned what he described as a condescending attitude and implied threats from the head of the US delegation toward Niger’s government and people.
The rift between the two nations deepened as Abdramane questioned the legality of US troop presence in Niger, alleging violations of constitutional and democratic principles.
Highlighting a lack of transparency regarding the number of US personnel and equipment deployed in Niger, Abdramane stressed that the military agreement had been unilaterally imposed on the nation in 2012 without due consultation. He further noted that the agreement did not bind the US military to respond to Niger’s requests for assistance against militants.
Consequently, Niger officially revoked the military agreement, claiming its right to control foreign military presence on its soil.
