Niger Republic Protesters Demand Exit of US Troops

PROTESTERS in Niger Republic, on Sunday, voiced their opposition to the presence of the United States troops, urging them to leave the country.

The protests came as the US planned to withdraw more than 1,000 soldiers stationed in Niger, where they operate from a base primarily for drone operations, at a cost of $100m.

In the town of Agadez, home to a US air base, hundreds of demonstrators gathered to demand the departure of American forces.

The protests were organised by a coalition of civil society groups that have supported the current military regime since it came to power last year.

Some of the protesters told AFP, “Our message is clear: American soldiers, pack your bags and go home.”

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The decision to withdraw US troops came after the Nigerien military announced it was terminating a defence agreement with the United States, citing its imposition and claiming the presence of US troops was illegal.

This move reflected a broader sentiment among some Nigeriens that foreign military presence, including that of the United States and France, does not contribute to their security.

Meanwhile, Russia has been increasing its involvement in Niger, with military instructors arriving in the country and providing equipment, including an air defence system.

This development underscores a shifting geopolitical landscape in the region, with Russia expanding its influence in Africa, particularly in countries like Niger and Mali.

Despite the withdrawal of US troops, Niger continued to face security challenges from jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, particularly in the southeastern region near Nigeria.