On 14 January, Niger’s students took to the streets in a mass mobilisation with a clear message of support for their government, known as the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP), in the face of imperialist threats.
‘We are committed to fighting relentlessly against imperialism, a historic fight to which we devote ourselves, body and soul,’ said Effred Mouloul Al Hassane, secretary-general of the Union of Nigerien Students.
Recently, Nigerien President Abdourahamane Tiani said France was threatening his country. ‘Unfortunately, the enemy we face is not terrorism, but above all, France.’ Pan-Africanists in Niger and worldwide have celebrated Niger’s new government for nationalising uranium mines, ending its French military occupation, and becoming the first country in Africa to break ties with US Africa Command (AFRICOM). However, the country is still under attack by what many believe to be Western-backed death squads. Nigerien officials have also caught French spies working to destabilise their territory.
‘It’s only after we emerge [as a powerful nation] that we can move towards development, and that’s only if we remain united,’ said Brigadier General Abdou Harouna, the governor of Niamey, who attended this rally. ‘It’s essential that we work together, that we stand shoulder to shoulder to achieve this goal.’
Sources:
https://t.me/Aesinfosfr/5544?single
https://www.africom.mil/pressrelease/35590/us-withdrawal-from-niger-completed
https://www.neimagazine.com/news/niger-seizes-control-of-somair-uranium-mine/