Niger’s ruling military junta has revoked with immediate effect a military accord that allows basing military personnel and civilian staff from the US Department of Defense on its soil. According to the Spokesman for Nigar military, the recently visited American delegation did not follow diplomatic protocol, and Niger was not informed about the composition of the delegation, the date of its arrival, or the agenda. The government of Niger forcefully denounces the condescending attitude accompanied by the threat of retaliation from the head of the American delegation toward the Nigerien government and people.
The ego and esteem of the Nigerian nation are undoubtedly adorable and surprising for the rest of the third world. Historically, American diplomats and Military generals are notorious for pressurizing foreign leaders to exercise the so-called carrot and stick policy to get their interests fulfilled by other nations. American also assert their influence including economic and military aid, and especially exploit the political weakness of the unelected military rulers in their interest. Interestingly, the Nigerian military generals did not give in to US intimidation and retaliated forcefully by severing diplomatic ties and halting military cooperation with the United States. This resolute and timely response of Nigerian leaders reminds us about the wicked policy of Pakistani leaders who uncontestedly subdued before a threat of Richard Holbrooke and pushed their nation into a foreign war. Today’s young Pakistani officers and brave soldiers are laying their lives to fighting terrorism. In contrast, there is no terrorism in America and Afghanistan, both countries are currently fueling this monster on our soil.
There are about 1,100 US troops in Niger as of last year, where the US military operates out of two bases including a drone base known as Air Base 201. The ongoing power competition between major nations is in full swing across the globe, which significantly changed the geopolitical landscapes in Western Africa. Military generals threw out several pro-West political governments in Africa and kicked out Western Armies camped there in the garb of the fight against militancy. Whilst, Russian companies and Wagner Group are spreading their claws in the continent full with gold and other precious deposits. American diplomats used sticks to harass African generals, in turn Niger Military leaders not only smashed their sticks but vomited their carrots too. As, Americans’ first attempt backfired, hopefully, Biden aides will come again in new guise to deal with the Niger junta in the future.
