Niger Protesters Call for Exit of US Troops: Here’s Why
Thousands of individuals in Niger’s capital voiced their demand for the immediate withdrawal of US soldiers from the northern regions following the announcement by the military junta in Niamey that it was terminating a military agreement with Washington. The agreement, established in 2012, was deemed by the West African country as “unilaterally imposed” by the United States in the aftermath of a coup in July.
Students and notable figures from the military regime participated in the protest, which took place in front of the National Assembly Headquarters in Niamey. Chants of “Down with American imperialism” and “The people’s liberation is on the march” echoed through the crowd, reflecting sentiments against foreign military presence.
While French troops were expelled at the end of 2023, approximately 1,000 American soldiers remained stationed in Agadez city in the north. In response to Niger’s decision to terminate the agreement, the US was expected to submit a proposal for the withdrawal of its troops. However, Washington refrained from commenting directly and sought clarification from Nigerian authorities.
Among the demonstrators, Sheikh Ahmadou Mamoudou, a respected religious leader, voiced the sentiment for American forces’ swift and peaceful departure. Despite the strong stance against US presence, organizers urged protesters to refrain from derogatory slogans or acts such as burning American flags.
March saw Niger join forces with neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso to establish a joint force aimed at combating jihadist rebellions prevalent in the region. This move marked a shift away from former colonial power France, with the three nations strengthening ties with Russia.
Flags from Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and Russia were visibly displayed during the protest, underscoring the growing alliance among these countries and their divergence from Western powers.
