NIAMEY, Niger – The United States officially closed its last military base in Niger on August 5, 2024, marking the end of its presence in the country. The Agadez air base, located approximately 1,000 kilometers from Niamey, had housed surveillance drones and transport planes.
This closure follows Niger’s decision on March 17, 2024, to revoke military cooperation with the U.S. and demand the immediate withdrawal of over 1,000 American armed forces, accusing them of illegal occupation. This move comes after Niger expelled over 1,500 French soldiers last year and cut diplomatic ties with France, accusing it of funding instability in the Sahel region. Despite numerous pleas to reverse these decisions, Niger’s stance remained firm.