On the eve of Friday, July 26, the first anniversary of the seizure of power by the National Council for the Protection of the Homeland (CNSP), General Abdourahamane Tiani addressed the people of Niger. In his speech, the president highlighted the challenges and achievements of the past year.
General Tiani began by recalling the circumstances that led the CNSP to seize power in a coup against Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023. He cited “existential threats” such as terrorism and foreign interference, as well as the need to break with the previous regime, which he described as “corrupt and repressive.
In his view, this seizure of power was perceived by the people of Niger as a genuine “national liberation” movement.
He articulated the ambitions of the new regime around four strategic axes: strengthening security and social cohesion, promoting good governance, developing the productive base, and accelerating social reforms. He stressed the importance of patriotic commitment in achieving these goals and called for “tireless” national mobilisation.
Particular emphasis was placed on the “rise to power” of Niger’s Defense and Security Forces (FDS), which he credited with “significant successes in the fight against terrorism and organised crime.”
The speech also touched on initiatives to exploit national resources for the benefit of the Nigerian people. These included a large-scale irrigation program to achieve food sovereignty and the promotion of local content in the mining and oil industries. He also announced ambitious projects such as the construction of an oil refinery in Dosso and the creation of an oil and gas institute in Zinder.
In his speech, the head of the CNSP spoke of the creation of the Confederation of Sahel States in collaboration with Burkina Faso and Mali. According to him, the aim of this group is to build a sovereign space of security and prosperity.
General Tiani expressed his determination to break with the “neo-colonial order” and establish equitable partnerships with nations that respect Niger’s sovereignty. He cited concrete measures such as the denunciation of defense agreements with France and the withdrawal from Cédéao as crucial steps toward full independence.
Finally, the Nigerian leader called for unity and vigilance in the face of the challenges ahead. He stressed the importance of involving all citizens in national reconstruction and promised to continue to consolidate Niger’s sovereignty and development.
AC/lb/as/APA