The American military completed its withdrawal from Niger.

Removal of American Military Base from Niger

The United States army closed its last base in Niger on Monday, August 5, in compliance with the demands of the military regime in the conflict-ridden Sahelian country facing jihadist violence. Following the departure of nearly 800 soldiers from the Niamey base in early July, only about 200 American personnel remained in the country, housed in the significant base in Agadez, located in the north.

Completion of Withdrawal Process

The withdrawal of American forces and equipment from Air Base 201 in Agadez has been completed, as announced by the U.S. Africa Command (Africom). Coordination between U.S. and Nigerien armed forces will continue in the coming weeks to ensure the total withdrawal proceeds as planned.

Remaining Presence and Future Cooperation

Approximately twenty individuals are still present in Niger, according to Pentagon Deputy Spokeswoman Sabrina Singh. The remaining personnel are situated at the U.S. embassy in Niamey to facilitate the conclusion of the withdrawal process. The withdrawal officially concluded with a transfer ceremony attended by officials from both countries.

Evolution of Nigerien Foreign Policies

The removal of U.S. troops from Niger began in May following Niamey’s denunciation in March of the “illegal” military cooperation agreement with the United States. The completion of operations was scheduled for early August, ahead of the initial target departure date of September 15.

Changing Dynamics in the Sahel Region

In recent years, Niger has been a key player in U.S. and French counterterrorism operations in the Sahel, particularly amidst military takeovers in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso. However, with the recent 2023 coup that ousted elected President Mohamed Bazoum, the Nigerien junta has shifted towards closer ties with Mali and Burkina Faso, forming the confederation of the Sahel States Alliance (AES).

Shift in International Relations

Under the leadership of General Abdourahamane Tiani, the Nigerien regime has prioritized sovereignty and amended its foreign policy orientation, inclining towards Russia, which dispatched instructors and military equipment in April and May. Additionally, Niger has cultivated relationships with Turkey and Iran, diversifying its international partnerships.

Security Challenges and Regional Cooperation

Niger continues to grapple with jihadist violence linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State in the West. In the Southeast, the country faces attacks from Boko Haram and its splinter group, the Islamic State in West Africa (Iswap). The escalating conflicts have resulted in a significant toll of casualties, with about 1,500 civilians and military personnel losing their lives in jihadist attacks over the past year, compared to 650 between July 2022 and 2023.