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Niger’s Withdrawal from MNJTF: A Looming Security Catastrophe
Niger’s Withdrawal from MNJTF: A Looming Security Catastrophe
By Zagazola Makama
As of March 30, 2025, Niger’s formal withdrawal from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has sent shockwaves through the security landscape of the Lake Chad Basin, raising alarms over the potential for increased instability and violence in the region. This decision, orchestrated by Niger’s ruling junta, not only destabilizes the existing counterterrorism framework but also poses grave implications for Niger itself, alongside its neighbors, Nigeria and Chad.
Niger’s exit from the MNJTF has left a significant security vacuum, particularly along its northeastern border with Nigeria. The loss of Sector 4, previously secured by Nigerien forces, creates an urgent vulnerability that could enable insurgent groups to exploit the weakened defenses. The porous border has long been a weak link in counterinsurgency efforts, and without Niger’s military presence, Boko Haram and ISWAP may find fertile ground to establish new operational bases, smuggle arms, and launch cross-border assaults.
Military sources in Maiduguri have already indicated heightened risks for border towns like Damasak and Goskeru, which have historically been targets of Boko Haram incursions. The absence of Nigerien forces, who previously acted as a buffer, significantly escalates the threat level, making these areas prime targets for renewed terrorist activity.
The implications of Niger’s withdrawal extend beyond border security; it exacerbates internal military strains and economic challenges. The Nigerien military, already stretched thin, will now face increased pressure to manage security on its own territory while simultaneously combating rising insurgent threats. This scenario could lead to a diversion of resources away from critical internal security operations, leaving the nation vulnerable to insurgent resurgence.
Moreover, the economic ramifications of this withdrawal cannot be understated. As Niger grapples with the fallout from increased violence, the strain on its already fragile economy will intensify. Humanitarian crises may worsen as displaced persons flood into Niger from neighboring conflict zones, further burdening relief efforts and straining resources.
Chad, a key player in the MNJTF, now faces additional pressures as it grapples with Niger’s exit. The Chadian military, already engaged in combating insurgents along its western front, must now contend with increased threats from Boko Haram factions operating in the Lake Chad islands. The diversion of military resources to address these new challenges could expose vulnerabilities in Chad’s other security operations, potentially destabilizing the entire region.
The logistical and coordination challenges posed by Niger’s withdrawal cannot be overlooked. Chad’s reliance on cross-border military coordination with Niger for intelligence-sharing and troop movements is now compromised, complicating its counterterrorism efforts. As military planners in N’Djamena scramble to adapt, the risk of operational failures looms large.
Niger’s withdrawal from the MNJTF signals a broader geopolitical realignment in the Sahel, raising concerns about its potential pivot toward new security partnerships, particularly with Russia. The junta’s distancing from Western allies and expulsion of French forces may pave the way for closer military cooperation with Moscow. This shift could further complicate regional counterterrorism efforts, as Niger deepens ties with Russian-backed mercenary groups, mirroring trends seen in Mali and Burkina Faso.
Such a realignment could jeopardize existing intelligence sharing frameworks and counterterrorism coordination among Niger, Nigeria, and Chad. The specter of increased Russian influence in the region adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile security landscape.
A Call to Action: Urgent Measures Needed
In light of these developments, it is imperative for Niger and its neighbors to take swift and decisive action to mitigate the looming security crisis. The remaining MNJTF members Nigeria and Chad must urgently restructure their military strategies to address the vacuum left by Niger’s withdrawal. This includes redistributing troops to bolster border defenses, deploying advanced surveillance technologies, and enhancing diplomatic efforts to maintain intelligence-sharing channels. If possible fill in the vacuum left by Niger Republic.
Failure to act decisively could allow insurgents to capitalize on the disruption, leading to a resurgence of violence that threatens not only Niger but the entire Lake Chad Basin. Already there has been massive recruitment by JNIM and increase presence of Lakurawa within the Nigerien borders.
The stakes have never been higher, and the time for action is now. Without effective measures to counter the rising tide of insecurity, the region risks slipping into a state of chaos, reversing years of progress against Boko Haram and ISWAP.
Conclusion
Niger’s withdrawal from the MNJTF marks a critical juncture in the fight against terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin. The implications for Niger are profound, as the nation faces the dual challenges of securing its borders and managing internal stability amidst rising insurgent threats. As regional leaders grapple with these challenges, the urgency for a cohesive and collaborative response has never been more pressing. Failure to fill the void left by Niger’s exit could plunge the region into deeper insecurity, with devastating consequences for millions.
Zagazola Makama is a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad Region
Niger’s Withdrawal from MNJTF: A Looming Security Catastrophe
Chadian security forces recover cache of arms, arrest suspects in N’Djamena
By: Zagazola Makama
Chadian security forces on Sunday recovered a large cache of weapons and ammunition during a joint search operation in parts of the capital, N’Djamena, as part of intensified efforts to combat insecurity.
Sources Zagazola Makama that the operation was carried out in the 10th arrondissement and parts of the 2nd arrondissement of the city.
According to the sources, the joint team of internal security forces seized 28 pistols, 14 other firearms, and more than 1,000 rounds of assorted ammunition during the raid.
They also recovered military equipment and six vehicles suspected to be linked to criminal activities.
“Two gun owners were arrested during the operation and are currently in custody for further investigation,” a senior security official said.
He explained that the exercise was conducted under the supervision of top security authorities and formed part of broader measures to dismantle criminal networks and curb the proliferation of illegal arms in the capital.
The official added that the recovery of the weapons had significantly disrupted the operations of armed groups and criminal elements in the affected districts.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Chadian security services to sustaining pressure on all groups involved in arms trafficking, banditry and other threats to public safety.
“The security forces will continue intelligence-led operations to ensure the safety of lives and property across the country,” he said.
Chadian security forces recover cache of arms, arrest suspects in N’Djamena
VP Shettima Arrives In Switzerland For 56th World Economic Forum
To Commission Nigerian House in Davos Tomorrow
By: Our Reporter
Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in the alpine town of Davos, Switzerland, to lead the Nigerian delegation at the 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF), scheduled to be held from January 19 to 23, 2026.
The Vice President arrived from Conakry, Guinea, where he represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the presidential inauguration of President Mamadi Doumbouya on Saturday.
He was received on arrival by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yussuf Tuggar, and Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, and officials of the Nigerian mission in Switzerland.
The 2026 WEF marks a milestone in Nigeria’s global economic diplomacy with the official debut of “Nigeria House Davos.” For the first time, the Federal Government has established a dedicated sovereign pavilion on the Davos Promenade.
This facility, a product of a successful Public-Private Partnership (PPP), will serve as a permanent hub for high-level ministerial engagements, investment roundtables, and cultural diplomacy throughout the week.
Vice President Shettima will present Nigeria’s 2026 economic outlook to the world’s most influential political and business leaders, as he participates in key plenary sessions focusing on the responsible deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and biotechnology.
Throughout the week, the Vice President will hold bilateral meetings with heads of state, top executives from multinational corporations, and leaders of international development finance institutions to deepen partnerships that align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In an interview with journalists shortly after the VP’s arrival, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole said Nigeria would makena robust presentation of investment opportunities in the country at the launch of the Nigeria House in Davos which will focus on President Tinubu’s efforts in revamping the economy.
According to the Minister, “we will be showcasing four playbooks on President Tinubu’s efforts in re-engineering the Nigerian economy. We will present our solid minerals sector, climate sustainability agriculture, creative and digital sectors to investors from all over the world.”
VP Shettima Arrives In Switzerland For 56th World Economic Forum
CDN Backs Federal Government’s U.S. Lobby Contract, Calls It Strategic Security Move
By: Michael Mike
The Coalition in Defence of Nigeria (CDN) has publicly supported the Federal Government’s decision to engage a United States-based lobbying firm over allegations of Christian genocide in Nigeria, describing the move as a strategic step toward strengthening the nation’s security and international relations.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, the coalition insisted that the engagement of the lobby firm is not merely a public relations exercise but a deliberate investment in Nigeria’s long-term stability and global credibility.
The National Publicity Secretary of CDN, Mallam Isa Shehu, said Nigeria is currently grappling with serious security challenges such as terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and organized crime. He noted that these threats extend beyond Nigeria’s borders and are often connected to international networks involved in arms trafficking, extremist financing, and cybercrime.
Shehu argued that hiring a reputable U.S. lobbying firm would help Nigeria build stronger partnerships with foreign governments, particularly in areas of intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism collaboration, and technical support for security agencies.
He further explained that the move would ensure that Nigeria’s security concerns receive greater attention in Washington and other global decision-making centres, reinforcing the government’s commitment to protecting lives and restoring peace across the country.
The coalition stressed that tackling insecurity requires collective effort, not just government action. It called on civil society groups, business leaders, political actors, and ordinary citizens to play their roles in promoting national unity and security.
While acknowledging that the lobby contract alone cannot solve Nigeria’s security problems, the CDN maintained that it is a valuable diplomatic tool that could strengthen the country’s position on the global stage.
The group urged Nigerians to support the Federal Government’s decision, saying the issue is not political but essential for national survival and development.
The CDN concluded by reaffirming its full backing for the initiative and calling for nationwide solidarity in the fight against insecurity.
CDN Backs Federal Government’s U.S. Lobby Contract, Calls It Strategic Security Move
Chadian security forces recover cache of arms, arrest suspects in N’Djamena
VP Shettima Arrives In Switzerland For 56th World Economic Forum
CDN Backs Federal Government’s U.S. Lobby Contract, Calls It Strategic Security Move
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