In the wake of a political storm in Niger, following the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum, Algeria and Egypt have emerged as strong advocates for a diplomatic resolution. They warn against the temptations of military intervention, a strategy West African leaders are considering to reinstate democracy. Even Nigeria, with its influential religious and community entities, advises prudence, fearful of the domino effect such intervention could cause in the region.
Algeria, with its long shared boundary with Niger, has been particularly proactive. They’ve dispatched Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf to several regional countries, underlining the importance of dialogue over armed conflict. Algeria’s apprehensions stem from the possibility that any military action in Niger might reverberate negatively on its own security. Parallelly, Egypt has voiced concerns about the larger implications of military action on the stability of West Africa.
Amidst this political turmoil, another crisis brews. The coup has stranded over 7,000 migrants in Niger due to border lockdowns, causing a burgeoning humanitarian issue. With exits blocked and aid limited, the situation is increasingly dire.
The urgency and concern aren’t just regional. Major international players like the UN, EU, and the UK have weighed in, pushing for a peaceful resolution in Niger.
