The U.S. has officially transferred its last military base in Niger, Airbase 201 in Agadez, to local authorities, marking the end of American military operations at key counterterrorism hubs in the country.
This move follows the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Airbase 101 in Niamey earlier this month, with all U.S. personnel required to leave Niger by September 15.
The withdrawal stems from a decision by Niger’s ruling junta to end the agreement permitting U.S. military presence, which has significant implications for counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel region, where jihadist groups linked to al-Qaida and ISIS are active.
The departure follows a broader reduction of Western military presence in the area, impacting ongoing efforts to combat extremist groups in West Africa.
Peoplesmind
