Niger’s military government has formally requested the immediate replacement of the European Union’s ambassador following a dispute over the distribution of emergency flood aid. The demand comes after the EU recalled its ambassador, Salvador Pinto da Franca, for consultations in Brussels, citing strong disagreements over accusations of unauthorized aid distribution.
On Friday, Niger’s authorities accused Ambassador da Franca of channeling 1.3 million euros ($1.36 million) in aid for flood victims to non-governmental organizations without prior approval from the government. The Nigerien government claimed that despite being warned in October about such unauthorized operations, the ambassador continued with the distribution, leading to the government’s decision to sever ties.
“In view of this obstinacy… the government has concluded that working with Ambassador Salvador Pinto da Franca is no longer feasible,” a statement from Niger’s foreign ministry read. “We have officially requested his immediate recall and replacement.”
Since June, Niger has been grappling with devastating floods that have left over 300 dead and displaced more than 1.1 million people. While international aid has poured in, Niger’s government has maintained it did not request European assistance, asserting that it would manage the flood’s damage using its own resources.
The fallout follows a broader trend of deteriorating relations between Niger’s military rulers and the European Union since the July 2023 coup. The country has increasingly distanced itself from its former colonial power, France, and EU-backed initiatives, further escalating tensions in the region.