Niger has withdrawn from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), a regional military alliance formed to combat Boko Haram, opting to manage its national security independently. The decision was accompanied by a rebranding of its military operation in the Diffa region, now named “Naliwa Doli,” according to state broadcaster Télé Sahel.
Established in 2015, the MNJTF comprises troops from Benin, Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria, with its headquarters in N’Djamena, Chad. Its primary mission has been to secure areas in the Lake Chad Basin affected by jihadist activities. However, Niger’s government believes that strengthening the autonomous management of its armed forces is a priority, particularly in safeguarding critical infrastructure.
Despite the withdrawal, Nigerien authorities report that the security situation in the Diffa region remains stable. The country’s military has reaffirmed its commitment to combating cross-border threats and maintaining security in the region. Over the past month, the Defense and Security Forces have also distributed food aid to vulnerable communities in Diffa as part of efforts to foster closer ties between the military and civilians during Ramadan.
Niger’s decision comes amid ongoing discussions with neighboring countries on regional security and border surveillance. Foreign Minister Bakari Yawo Sangaré recently met with Nigeria’s Ambassador to Niamey, Mohamed Sani Osman, to address cooperation on cross-border security measures.