In a powerful display of unity, throngs of Nigerians congregated near France's Niamey military base to mark the departure of Paris' ambassador, a month after the military junta's expulsion order
However, fervent anti-French activists insist the battle is far from won.
"This triumph marks just the beginning of our revolution. We urge all of Niger's populace to rally until the last French soldier exits our soil," declared demonstrator Mohamed Abdou-Latif, emphasizing the ongoing struggle. Echoing his sentiment, activist Ibrahim Boubacar stressed, "We're elated, but the ambassador's departure doesn't signal the end.
We will persist in our fight."
Their focus now centers on France's commitment to withdraw its 1,500 soldiers from Niger, a move slated before year-end, denting Paris' influence. Demonstrator Issaka Tondi Tassiou expressed cautious satisfaction, acknowledging the logistical challenges: "The withdrawal timetable, considering the 12-year deployment and equipment logistics, seems reasonable. Dismantling and packing up takes time."
France had stationed troops in Niger as part of an anti-jihadist mission in the region. Concurrently, the new regime is charting future ties with Paris, with the shape of these relations determined by the will of the Nigerien people.