Niger’s Minister of State for National Defense, General Salifou Mody, has outlined an ambitious military and diplomatic restructuring plan aimed at strengthening the country’s defense capabilities amidst growing regional security challenges.
Speaking on national television, General Mody detailed the government’s efforts to rebuild and modernize the nation’s defense forces following the July 26, 2023, political transition. He acknowledged the security challenges faced by the previous government, citing a lack of coordination between security forces and a heavy reliance on foreign military support, particularly from France.
To address these shortcomings, the government has undertaken a significant military buildup. This includes a major recruitment drive, with over 12,792 personnel joining the National Armed Forces and Gendarmerie in 2024. Additionally, over 18,377 personnel underwent training, a 66% increase compared to the previous year.
The government has also invested in modernizing its military equipment, acquiring new aircraft, vehicles, and logistical resources. Furthermore, infrastructure development has been prioritized to improve the living and working conditions of military personnel.
Recognizing the evolving security landscape, the government is developing a new national defense doctrine that encompasses military, economic, diplomatic, and infrastructural aspects. This doctrine emphasizes the importance of a “collaborative military strategy” involving the armed forces, security forces, and the population in combating threats such as terrorism, cross-border crime, and external destabilization attempts.
The government has also embarked on a significant shift in its foreign policy, diversifying its defense partnerships. While denouncing defense agreements with France, Niger has established new partnerships with countries like China, Turkey, Iran, and Russia. The minister emphasized the importance of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a regional bloc comprising Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, as a crucial force in addressing shared security challenges.
General Mody concluded by emphasizing the importance of national sovereignty and self-reliance in ensuring the country’s security. “Our country can only be defended by ourselves,” he stated, highlighting the need to leverage national resources for the benefit of the population.
AC/te/Sf/fss/abj/APA