On Saturday (August 19), a multitude of individuals formed lengthy queues outside Niamey’s primary stadium, heeding the call to serve as civilian auxiliaries in support of the armed forces.
Although the organizers of the event asserted that the junta was not directly involved in this endeavor, they acknowledged being aware of its occurrence.
ECOWAS Defense Chiefs Set to Take Action in Niger on ‘D-Day’.
Regional nations have issued a warning to the Nigerien junta about the potential for a military intervention.
“I am driven by a profound love for my nation, and Niger is indeed our homeland. I am eager to dedicate myself to the betterment of Niger. Long live Niger!” exclaimed Mamadou passionately.
Abdoulaye, a football player, stated, “I’ve learned that they require 5,000 to 10,000 volunteer soldiers, which is why I have come here.”
Several parents brought their children to enroll, while others recounted waiting since 3 a.m. in response to calls from various organizations.
Young individuals rallied in support of the junta and expressed opposition to both ECOWAS and France, the nation’s former colonial ruler.
The initiative, led by a group of locals from Niamey, has the objective of recruiting tens of thousands of volunteers from all corners of the country to enlist in the Volunteers for the Defense of Niger.
The group’s responsibilities encompass not only combat but also extending medical assistance, offering technical and engineering support, and providing logistical aid if the junta necessitates assistance, as stated by Amsarou Bako, one of the founders, who shared these details with The Associated Press on Tuesday (August 8).
An unnamed activist addressing the jubilant crowds declared, “As a mother with military ties, we eagerly await you, young volunteers. I can only say this: From now until tomorrow, we are anticipating your presence. With the help of God, we hope you can guide us through these challenges.”
On Saturday (August 19), ECOWAS envoys arrived in Niger with the intention of initiating further discussions with the junta.
The delegation includes Abdulsalami Abubakar, the former Nigerian military leader, as stated by the communication office of the Nigerien ruling CNSP.
Abubakar had previously visited Niamey on August 3rd as an ECOWAS representative, but he was unable to meet with the new leader, Abdourahamane Tchiani, or the ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum.
The commissioner for political affairs and security of ECOWAS emphasized on Friday (August 18) that they stand prepared to deploy a standby force in the event that negotiations falter.
