27/12/2024
NIGERIA'S TIES WITH FRANCE: A GROWING CONCERN FOR NIGER'S SOVEREIGNTY AND STABILITY
By: Mal. Abbas Shuaibu Mijinyawa
(An Independent Political Scientist)
The dynamics of international relations in West Africa have grown increasingly complex in recent years, particularly with the shifting alliances and strategic partnerships among nations. One relationship that has drawn considerable attention is Nigeria’s close ties with France, a relationship that has raised concerns for neighboring Niger.
France’s historical influence in West Africa, rooted in its colonial legacy, continues to shape the political and economic landscape of the region. While many African nations, including Niger, have sought to reduce their dependence on France, Nigeria has maintained strong diplomatic, economic, and security ties with the European power. This alignment has created a sense of unease in Niger, where anti-French sentiment has been on the rise.
France’s Controversial Role in West Africa:
France’s involvement in the region has long been criticized for perpetuating neocolonial structures. The CFA franc, used by many Francophone African nations, is controlled by the French treasury, limiting these countries' monetary independence. Furthermore, France’s military presence in West Africa, particularly through operations like Barkhane and its bases across the Sahel, has often been viewed as a means to secure French interests rather than address local security challenges.
In Niger, a country grappling with security threats from jihadist insurgents and political instability, the French presence has sparked protests and calls for a reevaluation of ties. The July 2023 coup in Niger, which ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, led to the expulsion of French forces, signaling a clear break from Paris. This anti-French sentiment reflects a broader desire for sovereignty and self-determination.
Nigeria’s Strategic Partnership with France:
In contrast, Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy and a regional powerhouse, has maintained a pragmatic relationship with France. This partnership spans trade, investment, and counterterrorism efforts. France is one of Nigeria’s major trading partners, with significant investments in the oil and gas sector. Additionally, both nations collaborate on security issues, particularly in combating Boko Haram and other insurgent groups in the Lake Chad Basin.
Nigeria’s willingness to work closely with France stems from its need for international support to tackle its multifaceted challenges. However, this alignment has raised eyebrows in Niger, where France’s intentions are viewed with suspicion.
Niger’s Concerns:
Niger’s apprehension about Nigeria’s relationship with France is rooted in several factors:
1. Security Implications: Niger fears that Nigeria’s cooperation with France could undermine efforts to establish an African-led approach to regional security. France’s military interventions in the Sahel have been criticized for exacerbating instability rather than resolving it.
2. Economic Disparities: France’s economic influence in Nigeria could strengthen its foothold in the region, perpetuating the very systems Niger is trying to escape.
3. Political Symbolism: Nigeria’s close ties with France may be perceived as a betrayal of the Pan-African ideals of self-reliance and unity, particularly at a time when Niger is seeking to assert its independence from external influences.
4. Regional Power Dynamics: As a dominant player in West Africa, Nigeria’s actions often set the tone for the region. Niger’s leaders may view Nigeria’s alignment with France as a signal to other nations to continue engaging with the former colonial power, undermining efforts to shift away from neocolonial dependencies.
The Path Forward:
To address these concerns, Nigeria must navigate its relationship with France carefully. It must strike a balance between leveraging French support for its development goals and respecting the aspirations of its neighbors for greater autonomy. As a regional leader, Nigeria has a responsibility to foster cooperation and unity among West African nations.
This could involve engaging in more robust dialogue with Niger and other countries in the region to address shared challenges. Furthermore, Nigeria could champion initiatives that promote African-led solutions to security and economic issues, reducing reliance on external powers like France.
Ultimately, the future of Nigeria’s relationship with France and its impact on Niger depends on how both nations prioritize regional solidarity over external alliances. By doing so, they can pave the way for a more independent and resilient West Africa.