Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno is visiting Niger’s capital, Niamey, today in a move aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing regional solidarity in the Sahel.
The Chadian embassy in Niamey has coordinated the mobilization of its diaspora to welcome the president, who is continuing diplomatic efforts launched since Niger’s political transition in July 2023.
This visit takes place amid growing insecurity across the Sahel and shifting alliances, with both countries confronting jihadist threats in the Lake Chad Basin. Chad’s withdrawal from military agreements with France in late 2024 reflects a broader regional shift in security partnerships.
The visit also underscores Chad’s continued engagement in the G5 Sahel, as other members like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have exited the bloc and ECOWAS, reshaping the regional security and political landscape.
President Déby’s trip follows earlier diplomatic efforts to mediate the Niger crisis, including his visit to Niamey in July 2023 at the request of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu. He met with key political figures including the transitional leader General Abdourahamane Tiani and deposed President Mohamed Bazoum. More recently, a Chadian delegation delivered a message of solidarity to Niger’s leadership, highlighting strong historical and cultural ties.
