U.S. and Nigerien Defense Ministries Conclude Phase One of U.S. Troop Withdrawal
In a significant diplomatic development, the Ministry of National Defense of Niger and the U.S. Department of Defense announced the successful conclusion of the first phase of the withdrawal of U.S. forces and equipment from Nigerien territory. The announcement came during a formal signing ceremony at Air Base 101 in Niamey, Niger’s capital.
The ceremony, attended by American ambassador Kathleen FitzGibbon and high-ranking civil and military officials from both countries, marked the transfer of American military rights to the Nigerien army. Colonel Mamane Sani Kiaou, Chief of Staff of the Niger Army, underscored that the agreement mandates the complete removal of all American military assets from Niger.
“This includes bases in Niamey, Agadez, Ouallam, and Diffa, with a deadline set for September 15,” stated Colonel Kiaou. Following the transfer from Air Base 101, the focus will shift to the withdrawal operations at Air Base 201 in Agadez City. Both Nigerien and U.S. officials emphasized their commitment to ensuring a secure, orderly, and responsible withdrawal process.
The decision to withdraw American troops follows a strategic reassessment of U.S. military presence in the region, aligning with broader foreign policy objectives. The move reflects ongoing efforts to recalibrate international engagements while maintaining strong bilateral ties with Niger.
