Turkey set to train Niger’s military: Out with the west, in with Ankara
Facing a relentless jihadist threat after they rejected the West, Niger turns to Turkey to train its troops.
According to Middle East Eye on September 22nd, Turkey will send some of its elite troops to train Niger’s military, aiming to bolster its fight against militants destabilising the Sahel. This move reflects Ankara’s bid to deepen ties with Niger, which has distanced itself from traditional Western powers ever since its coup in 2023.
The outlet claims the troops will consist of Turkish commandos and special forces who have gained experience in the likes of Syria and Libya, countries that have also faced threats from jihadist extremist groups. Sources indicate that at least four battalions will travel to Niger to provide training and advisory support, but will not be involved in direct combat.
The deployment reportedly does not require Turkish parliamentary approval since the troops are only staying for a limited amount of time, without establishing bases or a secure territory.
The two countries are no strangers to security deals; in 2020, they signed a military training cooperation agreement, and in July 2025, they signed a military financial cooperation agreement.
There have been bumps in the road, such as when Niger unilaterally terminated an intelligence-sharing agreement with Turkey and Russia because of “ineffectiveness in surveillance operations, particularly in telephone interception.”
Ibrahim Bachir Abdouyale, a doctoral researcher, spoke on the growing defence relationship between the two states. “At this point, Turkey, with its developing defence industry, growing interest in the Sahel region and independent foreign policy has become an ideal partner for Niger,” he said.
Abdouyale also speculated on the cooperation agreements, believing the military financial cooperation deal opens the door for Niger to modernise its army.
“Although the exact contents of the agreement are not yet known, many sources claim that it allows for the presence of Turkish troops in Niger,” he stated. Abdouyale also highlighted how “for Niger, this agreement is crucial for strengthening its army, ensuring the stability of the regime, and countering western influence.”
Niger’s rejection of the West has become all too apparent through the junta’s actions since they took power. As reported by Maghrebi, France withdrew it’s 1,500 troops present in the country in 2023.
The US followed in 2024, withdrawing around 1000 troops from the country as Niger became cosier with Russia. The US has since suspended visa services to the country, citing concerns around the junta leadership as justification.
As they do, Russia quickly swooped in to become the West’s alternative, creating an alliance centred around counterterrorism in Niger. Despite this, even Moscow’s mercenaries have found difficulty in dealing with the jihadists, which could explain Niamey’s pivot towards Turkey.
Middle East Eye, Maghrebi.org
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