Niger’s military leaders have announced the suspension of all cooperation with the International Organisation of Francophone nations (OIF), signaling a gradual distancing from its former colonial ruler, France. The military government spokesperson asserted that the 88-member body had historically been wielded by France to safeguard its interests, as conveyed on national television.
The military assumed control in a July coup, drawing strong condemnation from France and Western allies. Subsequently, French troops involved in combating a decade-long armed rebellion in Niger were expelled.
While the OIF had already curtailed most cooperation with Niger last week due to the coup, it pledged to sustain programs benefiting civilian populations and those contributing to the restoration of democracy.
The OIF’s mission centers on promoting the French language, supporting peace, democracy, and fostering education and development in Francophone countries, many of which are former French colonies.
In a statement, the Nigerien government urged Africans to decolonize their minds and champion national languages in alignment with Pan-Africanism’s founding principles.
Additionally, the government announced on Sunday that the duration of its hold on power was undetermined, and the length of the transition would be established through an inclusive national dialogue. However, the timing of this dialogue was not specified.
