By John Ikani
Niger and the United States have formalized an agreement to withdraw American troops from the West African nation.
his process has commenced and is slated for completion by September 15, as per a joint announcement.
The ruling junta in Niger demanded the departure of nearly 1,000 US military personnel last month.
Before a coup last year, Niger was a vital ally for the US in the battle against insurgents in the Sahel region, where violence has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions.
Following a five-day commission, Niger’s defence ministry and the US Department of Defence agreed to safeguard US troops during their withdrawal and established procedures to streamline the entry and exit of American personnel.
“The Ministry of Defence of Niger and the US Department of Defense recall the common sacrifices of the Nigerien and American forces in the fight against terrorism and welcome the mutual efforts made in building up the Nigerien armed forces,” the joint statement read.
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“The withdrawal of American forces from Niger in no way affects the pursuit of relations between the United States and Niger in the area of development. Also, Niger and the United States are committed to an ongoing diplomatic dialogue to define the future of their bilateral relations.”
Niger’s demand for the US troop withdrawal followed a meeting in Niamey in mid-March. During this meeting, senior US officials voiced concerns about the expected arrival of Russian forces and reports of Iran seeking raw materials in Niger, including uranium.
Russian military personnel have since taken over an air base in Niger that hosts US troops.
