Sunday, February 16, 2025

President Ouattara: Time for Ivorians to Rely on Their Armed Forces

Ivory Coast is set to take a major step toward military independence, as French forces prepare to withdraw from the country.

President Alassane Ouattara announced the decision during his annual address to the nation on Tuesday, marking a new chapter in the nation’s security strategy.

The withdrawal follows years of France reducing its military presence in West and Central Africa, a region where its colonial influence lingered long after independence in the 1960s. French troop numbers across the region have already dropped significantly, from 2,200 to just 600. Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have seen similar exits, triggered by coups and mounting anti-French sentiment.

READ MORE: Nigerians Grapple with Power Crisis as GenCos’ N2.7 Trillion Debt Hampers 6,000MW Goal

“Our armed forces have evolved and modernised. This moment calls for pride in what we have achieved,” Ouattara said. “The withdrawal of French forces will be conducted in a coordinated and organised manner, ensuring our security remains intact.”

The decision comes at a time when Ivory Coast’s security forces are increasingly self-reliant. Military spending in the country has surged by nearly 40% over the past five years, reaching $700 million in 2024, according to government figures.

The move aligns with a broader shift in regional dynamics. In November, Chad ended its defence pact with France, while France’s presence in Niger and Burkina Faso has been eliminated. Analysts suggest this reflects the complex realities of post-colonial relationships and growing calls for sovereignty in African nations.

Critics warn, however, that the withdrawal could create a security vacuum amid ongoing threats from extremist groups in the Sahel region. French troops have historically played a vital role in curbing insurgencies across West Africa.

“This is both a moment of pride and a challenge for Ivory Coast,” said Dr. Moussa Konaté, a regional security expert. “The country must ensure its forces are prepared to fill the gap left behind.”

While details on the exact timeline for the withdrawal remain unclear, Ouattara’s announcement has sparked mixed reactions. Many Ivorians view it as a step toward full sovereignty, while others express concerns about regional stability.

Hot this week

Ex-Lagos Speaker Obasa Sues Assembly Over Impeachment, Seeks Urgent Court Ruling

Former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly,...

NUC Tightens Rules for Private University Licensing with 14-Step Approval Process

Nigeria's National Universities Commission (NUC) has introduced a comprehensive...

NDLEA Tightens Grip on Drug Traffickers, Seizes Heroin and Other Illicit Substances Across Nigeria

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified...

How Nigeria Spends ₦407 Billion on Fuel Imports in 12 Days

Nigeria's state-owned oil firm, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company...

From Energy to Education: African Startups Raise $289 Million in a Record January

African startups began 2025 on a high note, securing...

Dangote Group to Invest $400M in Ethiopia Cement Expansion Amid Market Growth

Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, is doubling down on...

Djibouti’s Youssouf Secures AU Commission Chair, Pledges Security and Unity

Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has emerged as...

Nigeria Sees 9,100 Childhood Cancer Cases Annually Amid Calls for Urgent Action

Nigeria records approximately 127,000 cancer cases annually, with children...

Nigeria’s Defence Chief Exposes Foreign Links to Boko Haram, Calls for Action

Chief of Defence Staff General CG Musa has indeed...

Ex-Lagos Speaker Obasa Sues Assembly Over Impeachment, Seeks Urgent Court Ruling

Former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly,...

Nigeria to Boost Lagos-Kaduna Freight Rail to Full Capacity by Q2 2025

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) is ramping up freight...

Kenya’s Odinga, Djibouti’s Youssouf Lead Race for AU Commission Presidency

The race to lead the African Union (AU) Commission...

Related Articles

Popular Categories