By Mike Odeh James
(Abuja) The Sahel, a semi-arid region stretching across Africa south of the Sahara, has long been a focal point of geopolitical competition due to its vast natural resources, strategic migration routes, and persistent jihadist insurgencies that threaten regional stability.
A Rising Power in African Security
In a symbolic blow to France, Turkey has taken control of the former French military base in Faya-Largeau, Chad. This move underscores Ankara’s growing military footprint in Africa. Turkish forces have stationed drones at the base, reinforcing their commitment to deepening defense cooperation with Chad. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Chadian President Mahamat Déby have emphasized their joint efforts to combat Sahelian insurgencies, which have displaced millions.
However, critics warn that Turkey’s drone-heavy strategy risks exacerbating civilian casualties, mirroring concerns about its military campaigns in Libya and Syria.
Strategic Partnership with Niger
Following Niger’s expulsion of Western militaries and cancellation of French mining contracts, Turkey has emerged as a key ally. The partnership between Ankara and Niamey spans multiple sectors, including defense and intelligence collaboration, development of Niger’s oil- and gas fields, and support for the mining sector. Ankara denies seeking uranium for its Russian-built nuclear plant. Niger’s pivot toward Turkey reflects a broader rejection of Western influence. Ankara has capitalized on this sentiment by promoting a “win-win” rhetoric, appealing to local leaders seeking alternatives to traditional Western partnerships.
Nigeria’s Drone Diplomacy
Despite its longstanding alliance with the United States, Nigeria turned to Turkey for military support in 2022, purchasing 44 Bayraktar TB2 drones. The drones have been deployed against Boko Haram and other militant groups in the region. Turkish forces trained Nigerian operators, highlighting Ankara’s appeal as an arms supplier unburdened by Western human-rights conditionalities. This move aligns with Turkey’s broader strategy of positioning itself as a pragmatic and flexible defense partner.
Why the Pivot Toward Turkey?
Speaking to TruthNigeria, Friday Agbo, head of Alterconsult Think Tank, shared insights on why Sahelian African countries, including Nigeria, Niger, and Chad, are pivoting away from the West towards Turkey, China, and Russia. “In the case of Nigeria, former President Goodluck Jonathan had to appeal to the West for arms to combat Boko Haram, but then-US President Barack Obama declined. Nigeria then made a deal with Israel in 2014, agreeing to support Israel at the United Nations in exchange for Apache helicopters. However, the US, citing a third-party agreement clause, pressured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cancel the helicopter delivery.
The US also reportedly blocked another arms deal between Nigeria and South Africa. In desperation, Jonathan turned to China, Turkey, and Russia for military support.”
Security concerns are a significant driver of Sahelian countries’ shift towards alternative partners, according to Agbo. The region’s struggles with militant Islamist groups have led to widespread dissatisfaction with Western powers’ effectiveness in addressing these threats. The nations of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso are exploring alternative security arrangements, driven by the ineffectiveness of Western interventions and the growing threat posed by militant Islamist groups. Russia’s increasing presence in the region is attracting countries seeking alternative security partnerships, reflecting the complex and evolving security landscape in the Sahel region.
What President Donald Trump Should Do
“To regain trust and counter Turkey’s influence, the U.S. must recalibrate its approach. This includes offering security partnerships that go beyond military aid and address the root causes of instability, such as poverty and weak governance,” Agbo added.
He noted the new US President, Donald Trump, should provide better investment alternatives, expanding trade initiatives such as AGOA, increase funding for energy projects through Power Africa, and incentivize American businesses to invest in key sectors.
Diplomatically, Washington must rethink its approach to engagement, adopting a more pragmatic stance that deepens ties with not only governments but also opposition parties, civil society, and religious leaders. He suggested expanding cultural exchange programs and supporting independent media and digital platforms to strengthen America’s soft power.
“By balancing security, economic, and diplomatic engagement, the U.S. can re-establish its relevance in Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, offering genuine partnerships that benefit the region. With Trump’s potential return to office, his administration could leverage these strategies to reassert U.S. influence in the Sahel and counter Turkey’s growing presence,” Agbo said.
Mike Odeh James is a conflict Reporter and writes for TruthNigeria
