Niger has made a significant move to distance itself from French influence, announcing its withdrawal from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIC), a coalition of French-speaking nations. This decision comes after a nearly two-year suspension from the OIC, following a military coup that ousted former President Mohamed Bazoum.

The Nigerien government has been at odds with France, accusing the European country of destabilizing the region and refusing to acknowledge the legitimacy of the Junta-led government. In response, Niger has formed a new regional alliance with Burkina Faso and Mali, dubbed the Alliance of the Sahel States (AES). This move marks a significant shift in Niger's foreign policy, as it seeks to assert its independence and reduce French influence in the region.

The OIC, often likened to the British Commonwealth, has been a key platform for French-speaking nations to promote cultural and economic cooperation. However, Niger's withdrawal is seen as a bold statement against colonial-era influence and a desire to chart its own course. The country's foreign ministry stated that the decision to leave the OIC was made independently, citing the need to break free from lingering French influence.

This development is not isolated, as Niger has been actively working to rid itself of French influence in recent months. In January, the country renamed streets with colonial-era names, accusing France of using the "Trojan Horse technique" to destabilize the region. Additionally, Niger has announced plans to rewrite its colonial history from its own perspective, arguing that its history should be told from its own lens and reality.

The rift between Niger and France has been widening, with France finalizing the withdrawal of its troops from Niger in December 2023, following an exit request from the country's junta government. The French embassy in Niger was also closed indefinitely around the same time. The Nigerien Minister of the Interior, Public Security, and Territorial Administration, General Mohamed Toumba, has accused France of partnering with Niger's neighbors to disrupt the country's peace.

The implications of Niger's withdrawal from the OIC and its new alliance with Burkina Faso and Mali are far-reaching. The move is seen as a significant blow to French influence in the region and a bold assertion of Niger's independence. As the country continues to navigate its new path, it remains to be seen how this will impact regional dynamics and international relations.

In conclusion, Niger's exit from the OIC marks a significant turning point in the country's history, as it seeks to break free from colonial-era influence and forge its own path. As the country strengthens its ties with regional allies, it will be important to monitor the implications of this move on regional stability and international relations.