Niger Republic: Algeria, Egypt oppose military action, seek dialogue

Algeria and Egypt have taken a stance against military intervention in the Niger Republic, insisting that dialogue remains the optimal approach to addressing the prevailing political crisis within the nation.

In the aftermath of the coup that led to the removal of President Mohamed Bazoum, West African leaders had issued a threat of military intervention in the Sahel country, contingent upon the failure of General Abdourahmane Tchiani and the coup leaders to reinstate democracy and the ousted president.

Prominent figures and groups in Nigeria, including the National Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), and Northern Elders Forum (NEF), have also expressed opposition to the military option.

They have advocated for dialogue as the preferred method to resolve the crisis, highlighting the potential negative implications of a military operation, especially concerning Nigeria, which shares a close proximity to Niger.

Reports have emerged indicating that more than 7,000 migrants are presently stranded in Niger due to border closures prompted by the coup.

To address this on-going issue, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has dispatched Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf on a diplomatic mission to Nigeria, Benin Republic, and Ghana. The purpose of this tour is to engage in consultations with counterparts in ECOWAS countries, advocating for diplomacy instead of military intervention.

Algeria, sharing a lengthy land border of 1,000 kilometers with Niger, has previously cautioned against military solution, deeming it a direct threat to their North African nation. President Tebboune asserted that Algeria must be a key player in any solution, given its direct involvement.

The African Union suspended Niger until civilian rule is reinstated and indicated that it would assess the consequences of any armed intervention.

Algeria also shares borders with Libya and Mali, both of which are embroiled in prolonged conflicts. Niger becomes the fourth nation in West Africa since 2020 to experience a coup, following Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Mali.

In light of these developments, Egypt has emphasized the importance of dialogue to resolve the Niger crisis. The Egyptian government has stressed that a military approach could have adverse effects on both the West African sub-region and the broader continent. They expressed their commitment to supporting efforts that promote democratic governance and stability in Niger while preventing regional security disruptions.

Furthermore, the closure of borders and airspace following the coup has left over 7,000 migrants stranded in Niger. These individuals are unable to return home or proceed with their journeys, resulting in overcrowded centres and potential vulnerabilities to exploitation by traffickers and smugglers. Aid groups are struggling to provide necessary assistance due to the closure of borders and lack of access.

The situation in Niger has implications beyond its borders. The United Nations has highlighted the potential destabilization of Niger and its reciprocal impact on Libya. The porous border between Libya and Sudan has facilitated the movement of armed groups, mercenaries, and criminals involved in various illegal activities.

The United Kingdom has called for the immediate release of ousted Niger President Mohamed Bazoum. The UK condemned his illegal detention by the junta and stood in solidarity with ECOWAS in this regard. UK officials met with Nigerian defence leaders to discuss the situation and reiterated their support for ECOWAS’ diplomatic efforts toward a peaceful return to democracy in Niger.

In summary, nations and organizations are advocating for dialogue over military intervention in Niger, emphasizing the potential risks and advocating for diplomatic solutions to the crisis.