By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Niger’s Foreign Minister, Bakary Yaou Sangaré, accused France of engaging in a “new recolonisation strategy” that allegedly includes supporting terrorism in the Sahel region. Speaking at the UN General Assembly, he condemned France’s “hostile acts” and its role in training and funding terrorist groups, stating, “Niger reiterates its strong condemnation of these hostile acts and any form of support for terrorism.”
The accusations come amid deteriorating relations following the military coup in Niger in July 2023, which has strained ties between Niger and its former colonial power. President Abdourahamane Tiani had previously claimed that France aimed to destabilize the country. Furthermore, Sangaré criticized the involvement of other Western powers, highlighting the broader security crisis that has plagued the Sahel for over a decade.
France has not yet responded to these allegations, leaving the diplomatic future between the nations uncertain.
Source: TRT Afrika