NIAMEY: Niger has taken the dramatic step of closing its airspace until further notice due to the perceived threat of military intervention by the West African regional bloc. This move comes as coup leaders continue to reject a deadline to reinstate the country’s ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum, following the July 26 coup.
In a show of support for the junta, thousands of its supporters gathered at a stadium in the capital city, Niamey, cheering the decision not to bow to external pressure demanding their resignation by the Sunday deadline. The recent coup marks the seventh such incident in West and Central Africa within the past three years, creating turmoil in the Sahel region – one of the world’s poorest. Given Niger’s strategic importance due to its uranium and oil resources, as well as its role in combating Islamist militants, the crisis holds significance for global powers such as the U.S., Europe, China, and Russia.
Defence chiefs of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have formulated a potential military action plan, including details about when and where to take action if President Bazoum is not reinstated. The junta’s decision to close the national airspace was announced on Sunday evening, citing an impending threat of intervention. A junta representative revealed that forces had been deployed in two Central African countries in preparation for possible intervention.
Readiness of Niger’s Armed Forces
The spokesperson emphasized the readiness of Niger’s armed forces and its defense and security units, expressing determination to protect the country’s territorial integrity. ECOWAS is yet to respond with its next steps or the specific timing of the deadline’s expiration.
The junta supporters have initiated a non-violent citizen movement near an airbase in Niamey, aimed at offering resistance to ECOWAS if necessary. Amidst chants of “Vive Niger,” the sentiment among the supporters is directed not only against ECOWAS but also former colonial power France, which pledged to support regional efforts to reverse the coup.
Niger has recently revoked military cooperation agreements with France, which maintains a substantial troop presence in the country. The ECOWAS military threat has raised concerns of escalating conflict in a region already grappling with a deadly Islamist insurgency.
The possibility of military intervention is further complicated by neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso’s pledges to come to Niger’s defense if needed. Despite the ongoing crisis, Bazoum’s ousted regime continues to express hope for a last-minute agreement.
Italy has also taken precautions in response to the escalating situation, announcing a reduction in troop numbers in Niger to accommodate Italian civilians who may require protection should the security situation worsen.
