Major General Kenneth P. Ekman, the Director of Strategy, Partnership, and Programs at the United States Africa Command (Africom), held a press conference in Abidjan on Wednesday, July 24th, 2024. He announced that the withdrawal of American troops from Niger, a demand made by the current military regime, would be completed by early August. Additionally, he outlined the framework for a “strengthened partnership” between the United States and Ivory Coast.
Speaking at the U.S. Embassy in Abidjan, Major General Ekman provided updates on the withdrawal of American troops from their two bases in Niger, located in Niamey and Agadez. “The withdrawal is proceeding well ahead of schedule, thanks to excellent coordination with our Nigerien military counterparts and the support of Niger’s national authorities. We anticipate completing the withdrawal by early August, well before the agreed deadline of September 15,” he stated.
Ekman expressed concerns about the potential regional security implications of this withdrawal, describing them as “very worrying.” His discussions with Ivorian military and government officials focused on enhancing the “long-standing partnership” with Côte d’Ivoire to “better contain the Sahelian threat impacting its borders.”
“We have agreed that minor additions in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance personnel, medical capabilities, and additional training could make a significant difference. We have discussed what we believe would be most effective, which will ultimately be a political decision yet to be made, on how to work alongside Ivorian forces at their bases. I believe we are nearing an agreement,” Ekman explained.
This enhanced partnership aims to make Côte d’Ivoire “safer, more stable, and more prosperous,” Ekman concluded. The collaboration is also expected to bolster security across the sub-region, which faces growing threats from terrorism in the Sahel.
The U.S. commitment to supporting Ivory Coast underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing security challenges and promoting stability in West Africa.