Niger accuses France of ingratitude

The government of Niger, a nation currently ruled by a military regime that opposes French influence, called out France for expelling two Nigerien agents in September, describing the action as "serious and unacceptable ingratitude."

Tensions after a military coup

Relations between France and Niger have worsened significantly since a military coup in July 2023, when General Abdourahamane Tiani overthrew the democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum.

France declares agents persona non grata

According to a diplomatic source, France declared two Nigerien intelligence agents stationed at the Niger embassy in Paris as "persona non grata" on September 16, requiring them to leave French territory immediately. The French government did not comment on the matter.

Niger claims injury during joint mission

Niger's Justice Minister, Alio Daouda, stated that one of the expelled agents, Abdoul-Razak Ibrahim Moussa Toro, was seriously injured during a 2014 mission in Diffa, southeast Niger, where he worked alongside the French military. He was evacuated to France for treatment.

France's actions seen as betrayal

The minister accused France of changing its approach, noting that Toro was declared persona non grata in September 2026 and that the measure was extended to his family. Toro left France in September 2026, according to the statement.

Niger's criticism of France's conduct

Niger's government criticized France for expelling an injured agent who had served in a joint mission, arguing that France had both ordered and funded his work. It claimed France was ungrateful to those who had served alongside it.

Deteriorating relations and embassy closures

Relations between France and Niger have deteriorated further since the military takeover. General Tiani, close to Russia, expelled the French ambassador and ended all military agreements with France. France then permanently closed its embassy in Niamey in December 2023.

France maintains stance on Niger's leadership

Despite the deteriorating relations, France has not recognized the military regime in Niger and continues to recognize Mohamed Bazoum as the legitimate president. However, the Niger embassy in Paris remained open, reflecting the complex and tense diplomatic situation.