The United States has linked the growing wave of extremist violence in parts of West Africa, including Nigeria, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, to its withdrawal from the region, particularly Niger.
General Michael Langley, Commander of U.S. Africa Command, made this revelation during a press briefing at the 2025 African Chiefs of Defense Conference on Friday.
He noted that attacks by violent extremist groups have significantly increased across the Sahel since American troops pulled out of Niger in September 2024.
“Since we’ve left Niger in September of last year, we’re observing a rise in attacks by violent extremist organizations, not only in Niger but across the Sahel to include Nigeria as well and emanating in, going into Burkina Faso and Mali,” Langley explained.
He attributed the surge to widespread social and economic discontent, as well as the unchecked flow of weapons.
Langley also acknowledged the U.S. can no longer keep close tabs on these threats due to its military absence.
“Now, this increase is measurable by both frequency and complexity of these attacks driven by persistent and socioeconomic grievances and the proliferation of weapons and increased capable terrorist groups across the board.
“So unfortunately with our withdrawal from the region, we have lost our ability to monitor these terrorist groups closely but continue to liaison with partners to provide what support we can,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Langley reaffirmed that the United States is maintaining collaboration with regional allies to extend necessary assistance.
He also praised African militaries for their proactive response to these security challenges.
“These conversations reaffirm something critical: that African militaries are not waiting to be saved.
“African militaries are taking on security challenges head-on, and leverage opportunities for their nations to achieve stability and prosperity.
“So right now, as I speak to you, they continue to step up and take control of their own futures,” he noted.
This year’s defence conference in Nairobi attracted top military officials from more than 37 African countries.
Discussions centred on African-driven solutions, regional partnerships, and sustainable security approaches.
The U.S. had depended heavily on Niger as its base for tracking extremist movements across the Sahel.
Its decision to pull out followed a coup that ousted the democratic government and led the military regime to expel French forces.
Meanwhile, extremist violence has flared again in northeast Nigeria. Boko Haram insurgents have recently carried out deadly raids in Borno State, claiming lives and displacing residents.
Governor Babagana Zulum has voiced his frustration over the ongoing carnage, accusing some members of the military and political establishment of aiding the terrorists.