France completes pullout of troops from Niger

France has completed the full withdrawal of its forces from Niger as requested by the current leaders of the West African country who seized the power on July 26, after removing west-backed Mohamed Bazoum.

Over 1,300 soldiers stationed in the country have left the country and headed to neighboring Chad and to France, ‘Mali Jet’ reports citing a Nigerien army official.

“The disengagement of French troops is proceeding according to the timetable announced by the Nigerien authorities, in good security conditions. Land and air convoys continue,” the source said.

The source added that 80 per cent of military equipment has been also removed.

Relations between France and its former colony have turned sour since July 26 after a junta led by incumbent leader General Abdourahmane Tchiani, leading Bazoum’s own guard, removed and detained the President.

Niamey since then has severed ties with Paris and ordered some 1,500 troops stationed in Ouallam, Ayorou (Tabarey-Barey) and in the capital to leave.

France refused to abide by the decision but finally kick-started the forced-pullout on October 10 and completed it on Tuesday November 28.