Niger revokes operating license of French humanitarian organization ACTED amid rising tensions with Paris

Niger’s authorities announced on Tuesday the revocation of the operating license for French humanitarian organization ACTED, in a move that underscores escalating tensions between the country’s ruling military junta and France.

ACTED, which has been active in Niger since 2009, primarily focused on supporting communities displaced by ongoing conflicts between government forces and extremist groups.

However, the Ministry of Interior confirmed that the organization’s operational permit was withdrawn effective Tuesday, without disclosing specific reasons for the decision.

A second non-governmental organization, named APPE, was also affected by the measure.

Prominent pro-military government supporter Ibrahim Bana weighed in on the matter through social media, stating, “Niger is taking decisive steps towards achieving national sovereignty.”

The action follows a series of moves by the junta aimed at reducing French influence in Niger.

Recent measures included the expulsion of French military personnel involved in counterterrorism operations, as well as the removal of France’s ambassador from the country.

The military junta, which assumed power through a coup in July 2023, has since sought to pivot Niger’s foreign policy away from its former colonial power.

Instead, it has prioritized strengthening ties with Russia, along with neighboring Burkina Faso and Mali.

The realignment marks a significant shift in the region’s geopolitical dynamics, as Niger repositions itself within the broader landscape of African security and international alliances.