Niger: Demonstrators take to the streets in protest against foreign forces

Hundreds of protesters in Niger gathered in the capital, Niamey, to demonstrate against the presence of foreign forces in the country, including the U.S. military, which operates a base in northern Niger. The protest was organized by civil society groups aligned with Niger’s ruling military junta, known as the CNSP (National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland).

Protesters expressed support for the junta’s stance against foreign military involvement. Abdoulaziz Yaya, one of the demonstrators, stated, “We have called for the departure of the Americans and all foreign forces from Niger,” emphasizing the demand for a shift toward self-reliance in security matters.

This protest comes as Niger distances itself from cooperation with the U.S. in counterterrorism efforts, turning instead to Russia for security support. Russian forces recently arrived in the country, further complicating the presence of U.S. troops. Moumouni Amadou Gado, a protest organizer, argued that cooperation with Russia offers more tangible benefits compared to the prolonged U.S. presence, which, according to him, had not improved security in Niger.

While the CNSP has not officially requested the withdrawal of U.S. forces, their presence is increasingly in question. The arrival of Russian troops raises doubts about the future of U.S.-Niger counterinsurgency operations, which have been a cornerstone of Washington’s efforts to combat extremist groups like al-Qaida and ISIS in the Sahel region.

Relations between Niger’s junta and the U.S. have soured since the coup last summer, with Niger’s leadership criticizing Washington for pressuring the country not to align with Russia and Iran. The tension underscores the shifting geopolitical landscape in West Africa, where recent coups have altered alliances and security strategies.