In an exclusive interview broadcast on Niger’s national television RTN, Nigerien leader Abdourahamane Tiani made startling allegations against France, accusing the country of material and financial support for terrorist forces operating in the Sahel region.

Tiani revealed details of a high-level meeting allegedly orchestrated by Paris, which took place in Côte d’Ivoire in August 2024, aiming to destabilize the Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

According to Tiani, on August 6, 2024, eight Nigerien deserters attended a preliminary meeting in Abidjan. The main session was held on August 8 in Jacqueville, Côte d’Ivoire, where representatives, including a former Nigerien general, convened alongside French officials and another unnamed international power. The outcome of this meeting was the decision to form a force by the end of 2024, tasked with undermining AES member states.

Tiani detailed that from October 2 to November 15, a six-week training program was conducted at the 43rd Marine Infantry Battalion (BIMA) camp in Côte d’Ivoire. He claimed that this camp, ostensibly handed over to Ivorian authorities by the French, hosted the training of over 100 operatives. To disguise their recruitment, these operatives were reportedly integrated with Ivorian special forces, the Republican Guard, and presidential security personnel.

The training included urban combat tactics, reconnaissance of VIP residences, and hostage-taking operations. Participants were trained with a variety of weapons, including modified FAMAS rifles and AK-47s, to blend seamlessly into local contexts during operations. Tiani alleged that the trainers comprised 11 special forces instructors, six of whom came from France, while five were French nationals of Ivorian origin serving at the 43rd BIMA.
“This is part of a broader strategy to encircle not only Niger but the entire Confederation,” Tiani stated. He also criticized the complicity of certain African leaders, whom he accused of supporting these destabilizing activities to extend their political tenures under the guise of promoting ECOWAS unity.
Tiani’s revelations have raised alarm over what he termed a “machiavellian scheme” orchestrated by France, allegedly aimed at undermining stability in the Sahel. These accusations come at a time of heightened tensions in the region, where geopolitical maneuvering and external interference remain pressing concerns.
The claims underscore growing fears of external involvement in Sahelian affairs and highlight the precarious balance of power in the region.