Key Takeaways
- The U.S. completes the 1st phase of withdrawal from Niger, marking a significant step in the handover of military assets to the Nigerien army.
- The withdrawal is expected to strengthen regional security and cooperation, as the Nigerien army takes control of military assets and operations.
- The U.S. plans to complete the withdrawal by Sept. 15, with a focus on removing forces and equipment from Air Base 201 in Agadez.
Niamey: The Ministry of National Defense of Niger and the U.S. Department of Defense announced on Monday the end of the first phase of the withdrawal of U.S. forces and equipment from Nigerien territory.
The announcement was made at a signing ceremony in Niamey, where American ambassador Kathleen FitzGibbon and other officials from both countries attended. Nigerien officials will now oversee the transferred assets.
According to Colonel Mamane Sani Kiaou, the chief of staff of the Niger Army, the agreement calls for the removal of all American military assets in Niger “including those in Niamey, Agadez, Ouallam and Diffa by Sept. 15.”
After removing forces and equipment from Air Base 101, the United States will focus on withdrawing from Air Base 201 in the city of Agadez. “Nigerien and U.S. officials will work to ensure a safe, orderly and responsible withdrawal,” he added.
American troops had announced their official departure from the African nation by Sept. 15.
