The military junta in Niger Republic has expressed satisfaction with France’s decision to withdraw its troops from the country by the end of the year, viewing it as a positive move toward sovereignty. This sense of elation emerged shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron revealed on Sunday that France would withdraw its ambassador from Niger, followed by its military forces over the coming months.
In a statement released by the military rulers who seized power in late July after overthrowing President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, they stated, “This marks a historic moment that reflects the resolve and determination of the Nigerien people. This Sunday, we celebrate a new step towards the sovereignty of Niger,” further noting, “The French troops and the ambassador of France will leave Nigerien soil by the end of the year.”
Prior to Macron’s announcement on Sunday, the African aviation safety regulatory body had reported that Niger’s military rulers had imposed a ban on “French aircraft” from flying over the country’s airspace.
These developments underscore a significant shift in the relationship between Niger and France, with the former viewing the withdrawal of French troops and diplomatic representation as a step toward greater national sovereignty.