By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Sahel Rift Widens as Niger, Mali Raise Fresh Terror Claims
Tensions across West Africa deepened after Niger and Mali accused neighbouring states and foreign actors of aiding terrorist activities in the Sahel region.
Speaking at a regional security forum, Mali’s foreign minister, Abdoulaye Diop, alleged that some countries were providing safe haven and operational support to armed groups carrying out attacks against his country.
Although he did not name specific nations, he suggested that external powers were also playing a role in destabilising the region.
Echoing similar concerns, Niger’s foreign minister, Bakary Yaou Sangare, accused certain international partners of hypocrisy—claiming they publicly support counterterrorism efforts while secretly enabling extremist groups through funding and other forms of assistance. He specifically pointed to France in his remarks.
The accusations come against the backdrop of growing divisions within West Africa. Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso—all under military rule—recently exited the Economic Community of West African States and formed a new alliance known as the Alliance of Sahel States.
Relations within the region have since become strained, with ongoing disputes and mistrust complicating joint efforts to tackle insurgency.
Despite their firm exit from ECOWAS, leaders of the new bloc say they remain open to limited cooperation, particularly on trade and movement across borders.
However, with accusations flying and diplomatic ties weakening, concerns are growing that the lack of unity could undermine the broader fight against terrorism in the Sahel, a region that has faced persistent insecurity for more than a decade.
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