By John Ikani
The US remains active in Niger and Chad, even though troops have been pulled out, says the chief of the US Africa Command.
Gen Michael Langley clarified that the recent departure of troops from Chad was a “temporary repositioning” in response to concerns raised by the country’s military leaders ahead of the May 6th elections.
Similarly, last month, US troops exited Niger at the request of the country’s junta, with Russian military instructors stepping in under a new agreement.
Recent times have seen several Sahel region countries, led by military regimes, strengthening ties with Russia while reducing engagement with France, their former colonial ruler, in efforts to combat the Islamist insurgency.
Gen Langley stressed that violent extremist organizations pose the most significant threat to Africa’s stability.
Niger and Burkina Faso, following Mali’s lead, announced their withdrawal from the G5 international force, opting to form their own coalition known as the Alliance of Sahel States.
Establishing a drone base in Agadez, central Niger, in 2016, aimed to assist in monitoring jihadist activities. However, Niger ordered US troops to leave in March, citing objections from the US regarding Niger’s chosen allies.
Colonel Amadou Abdramane criticized the US for its “condescending attitude” and “threat of reprisals.”
Gen Langley reiterated the US’s objective of fostering dialogue with countries under junta rule, aiming to guide them back to democracy.
“Our ultimate goal is to continue engaging with these countries that have experienced coups, hoping to guide them back to democratic governance,” he told the BBC.
Ongoing discussions with Chadian leaders continue, with US involvement welcomed due to successes achieved in combating terrorism.
“In Niger, our discussions are ongoing, and any decision regarding our presence will be based on the evolving threat landscape, as well as the requests of the countries we engage with,” he added.
