In a recent statement via his official X account, former Nigerian Senator Shehu Sani has reacted to Senegal’s decision to end its military ties with France.
“Mali ended Military ties with France. Burkina ended Military ties with France. Niger ended Military ties with France. Chad ended Military ties with France. Senegal ending Military ties with France. What is really happening?” Sani wrote.
The announcement by Senegal marks another important move in the changing military and diplomatic situation of West Africa.
In recent years, several nations in the region have chosen to terminate their long-standing military agreements with France, these agreements often involved the presence of French troops and joint efforts to combat terrorism.
Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad have all previously ended similar ties, Senegal’s decision appears to follow this growing trend, which has been linked to increasing calls for sovereignty and reduced foreign influence.
Experts suggest that dissatisfaction with France’s counter-terrorism strategies and rising anti-French opinions may be driving these decisions.
Some West African nations have also begun exploring alliances with other global powers, such as Russia and China, to address their security and economic concerns.