Niger and Ghana forge stronger ties to combat terrorism in West Africa
In a significant move to address the escalating threat of terrorism, Niger and Ghana have pledged to deepen their collaboration on security matters. This commitment was solidified during a high-level meeting between Niger’s President Abdourahamane Tiani and Ghana’s former President John Dramani Mahama in Niamey, Niger’s capital.
The discussions underscored a shared determination to tackle the security challenges destabilizing the West African region.
A unified front against terrorism
The meeting between the two leaders marks a pivotal moment in regional diplomacy, particularly as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso—collectively known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—have recently withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Despite this shift, Ghana, which remains a member of ECOWAS, has chosen to engage directly with the AES nations, signaling a willingness to bridge divides for the sake of regional stability.
President Mahama’s visit to Niger is part of a broader tour that included stops in Mali and Burkina Faso. His presence in these countries highlights the importance of dialogue and cooperation in addressing the complex security landscape of the Sahel.
By fostering closer ties with the AES, Ghana is positioning itself as a key player in the fight against terrorism, even as it maintains its membership in ECOWAS.
Dao Lookman
