- The unfolding situation in Niger is a multifaceted crisis, caused by intertwining political turmoil, public sentiment, international players and control of strategic resources.
- As the nation grapples with internal conflict, the international community’s response will play a crucial role in shaping the path towards potential resolution.
- Understanding the realities on the ground and engaging with the Sahel region in a pragmatic manner, distinct from Russia’s approach, is essential for fostering stability and cooperation.
The situation in Niger’s capital, Niamey, remains tense and precarious, as the country finds itself engulfed in an ongoing and tumultuous military coup that has dramatically disrupted the normalcy of daily life. The once bustling streets of the capital now carry an air of uncertainty and fear, as citizens cautiously navigate through the turmoil, uncertain about what the next moment may bring. In response to the chaotic political landscape, rallies have emerged in the heart of Niamey, with passionate and determined crowds voicing their unwavering support for Nigerian President Mohamed Bazoum. These gatherings of people, fueled by their loyalty to the president, serve as both a powerful display of unity and a volatile trigger point in the conflict.
As the chaos ensues on the ground, the digital realm is abuzz with an overwhelming influx of information and misinformation, amplified through the pervasive influence of social networks. Rumours, often unsubstantiated, flood the online platforms, clouding the already obscure truth about the situation. Among these speculations are claims of President Mohamed Bazoum’s purported resignation and the potential rise of General Salifu Modi as the leader of the military junta, fueled by alleged connections with the Malian military government.
The international community, keenly aware of the implications of this crisis, has raised its collective voice in condemnation of the rebels’ actions. Entities such as ECOWAS, the African Union, the United States, and France have unequivocally denounced the military coup, calling for an urgent and meaningful dialogue between the presidential guard and the government. Their united stance aims to bring an end to the violence and find a peaceful resolution, while also advocating for the immediate release of President Mohamed Bazoum from detention.
Amid the storm of uncertainty, a glimmer of hope emerges in the form of President Patrice Talon of neighbouring Benin, who has stepped forward as an ECOWAS representative, taking on the arduous task of mediating peace talks between the rebels and the government. His involvement signals a ray of optimism for potential reconciliation amid this escalating crisis.
Reasons behind the coup
Though the exact trigger of the coup remains shrouded in ambiguity, speculation points to a plausible cause: the escalating conflict between President Mohamed Bazoum and the head of the presidential guard, Omar Chiani. Chiani’s known allegiance to Niger’s former president, Mohamed Issoufou, has placed him in the crosshairs of President Bazoum’s efforts to consolidate his authority. The dismissals of officials linked to Issoufou and Chiani may have fueled animosity, possibly culminating in the present unrest.
The military junta blames the government for poor governance, corruption and extreme poverty that exists in Niger, they also say that it’s the government favours Western interests and undermines the national interest of the country.
The French Connection!
The presence of French military bases in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger has been a long-standing strategy to counter extremist activities in the region. Nevertheless, the setbacks faced in 2021, including military coups in Mali and Burkina Faso, led to France’s decision to withdraw troops from those areas. Consequently, France’s military operations against jihadi groups have shifted their focus more towards Niger. This reliance on Niger has implications not only for security but also for the economic ties between the two countries.
Apart from its significance in security affairs, Niger plays a crucial role in supplying critical minerals to France. Among these minerals, uranium holds particular importance, as more than half of France’s uranium production comes from Niger. This strategic resource is vital for France’s nuclear energy sector and contributes to the country’s energy security. Therefore, the cooperation between France and Niger in the realm of security and mineral trade has created a complex interdependence between the two nations.
Despite the setbacks faced by France in the region in 2021, its military presence in Niger remains essential for countering threats posed by extremist groups. Furthermore, the economic ties between France and Niger, particularly in the domain of uranium trade, underscore the significance of their relationship. Both countries have a vested interest in maintaining stability and security in the region, ensuring the continuity of their strategic partnership. However, France must address the challenges that led to their withdrawal from Mali and Burkina Faso to effectively tackle the ongoing security threats and foster stability in the region. Additionally, both nations must continue to manage their economic interdependence prudently to ensure mutual benefits and long-term cooperation.
Impact on Security
Niger’s strategic significance in the Sahel region, bordered by countries grappling with violent extremism, has made it a crucial partner in the global fight against Islamist insurgency. However, following the recent coup, concerns arise about potential disruptions to governance and security, which could jeopardize essential partnerships and hinder regional security progress. Previous instances have shown that extremist groups, like the Islamic State Sahel Province and Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin, exploit governance and security vacuums, expanding their influence in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso after coups.
The coup’s impact on governance and security in Niger’s southwestern Tillaberi region, near the triple frontier with Burkina Faso and Mali, where the ISSP operates, could create opportunities for these groups to present themselves as alternatives to state authority. By exploiting the perception of neglect and marginalization in remote communities, jihadist groups have managed to infiltrate successfully. Furthermore, the coup might create divisions within the military, while the potential suspension of military aid and assistance from the US and France could hamper Niger’s security forces’ operational capabilities. Losing resources, intelligence-sharing platforms, and training programs could weaken their ability to effectively combat well-armed and organized extremist groups.
To exacerbate the situation, the potential withdrawal of French forces and American MQ-9 Reapers, crucial for monitoring militant movement, may lead to a shortage of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance assets, potentially leading to an upsurge in attacks if viable alternatives are not available to fill the void. Although Niger has acquired its own armed drone fleet, its integration into existing counterterrorism operations remains uncertain.
Sahel Authoritarian Leaders and Relentless Coups
Authoritarian leaders in the Sahel region often resort to coups due to various reasons. One of the primary factors is the difficulty liberal governments face in maintaining domestic security in the complex and challenging Sahel environment. The region’s political context demands strong governance, leading to the rise of pro-authoritarian regimes in countries like Chad, which may align with France’s ideas and interests.
Moreover, these authoritarian leaders might turn to Russia for support when they feel opposition from the West and believe that the West does not want to engage with them. This shift towards Russia is a response to their perceived lack of dialogue and communication with Western powers.
However, it is crucial to understand that the Sahel situation is intricate, and the pro-Russian stance of these leaders is not solely based on unconditional support for Russia. Instead, it often arises due to limited options when facing reluctance from the West to engage in constructive discussions.
Conclusion
To address this complex situation, French nationalists and other actors should adopt a genuine realist perspective and refrain from offensive language. Understanding the realities on the ground and engaging with the Sahel region in a pragmatic manner, distinct from Russia’s approach, is essential for fostering stability and cooperation. By acknowledging the complexities at play, there is an opportunity to navigate diplomatic relations more effectively and seek sustainable solutions for the region’s challenges.
In conclusion, the unfolding situation in Niger is a multifaceted crisis, caused by intertwining political turmoil, public sentiment, international players and control of strategic resources. As the nation grapples with internal conflict, the international community’s response will play a crucial role in shaping the path towards potential resolution. Meanwhile, France faces intricate decisions in securing uranium supply, navigating a geopolitical landscape riddled with complexities and uncertainties. The situation calls for a delicate and calculated approach from all stakeholders involved.
(The author is a post-graduate student in International Relations at Kalinga University, Raipur. The opinions expressed are the author’s own)
Dr. Niranjan B Poojar 
Bhagyashree Gupta