Samuel Agbelusi is a Journalist from Ondo state who is working in Lagos State, Nigeria.

He is a freelance Journalist  with different media outfits, a volunteer, an opportunist, content creator, sport analyst and lover of music.

He began his career as a journalist when he was picked with 54 ...

Niger Coup: The Sour Relationship Between Africa and Its Colonial Masters

26 Jul 2023  |  Modern Ghana  |  English  |  West Africa Politics

A coup in Niger led by presidential guards has ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, sparking celebrations among some citizens and raising concerns from international organizations like the United Nations and ECOWAS. The coup is seen as a revolt against French imperialism, with Nigeriens accusing France of exploitation, particularly regarding uranium resources. The event is part of a broader trend of anti-Western sentiment in Africa, with countries like Mali and Burkina Faso also experiencing similar military interventions. Russia is capitalizing on the situation, strengthening its ties with African nations. ECOWAS and the African Union have called for the restoration of democracy in Niger, while Mali and Burkina Faso have warned against external interference, indicating a potential escalation in regional tensions.

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West Africa Politics Niger Coup Colonialism

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Moussa Aksar is a journalist based in Niamey, Niger.

West African bloc 'going into Niger' if all else fails

12 Oct 2023  |  www.standard.net.au  |  English  |  West African Politics

West African defence chiefs, under the ECOWAS bloc, are considering military intervention in Niger if diplomatic efforts to reverse the recent coup fail. The coup, which deposed President Mohamed Bazoum, has led to calls from international bodies like the United Nations and Western powers for his reinstatement. ECOWAS Commissioner Abdel-Fatau Musah emphasized the bloc's readiness to restore constitutional order, citing past deployments in Gambia and Liberia. The situation in Niger is critical due to its strategic importance in the fight against Islamist insurgents and its natural resources. Local sentiment in Niger's capital, Niamey, shows resistance to foreign intervention, with accusations of ECOWAS being manipulated by foreign powers like France, which has denied such claims.

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West African Politics Military Intervention Political Crisis

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Adam Alqali is a development journalist based in Kano, Nigeria with over 5 years’ experience in investigative, fact checking, research and development reporting. He currently reports for amongst others, africacheck.org, Newsdiary online, National Review as well as African Newspage. 
He has ...

Deepening Democracy, Development: Dauda Garuba Unveils Roadmap for CDD’s Role in West Africa's Future

01 Sept 2024  |  www.africannewspage.net  |  English  |  West Africa

Dr. Dauda Garuba, the new director of the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa), outlines his strategic vision to address West Africa's democratic governance and sustainable development challenges. He emphasizes repositioning CDD as a leading pan-West African civic organization, focusing on issues like terrorism, human rights, and environmental governance. Garuba plans to foster partnerships and develop a strategic plan with pillars on democratic governance and development. He aims to enhance CDD's impact and revenue, addressing challenges like poverty, inequality, and climate change, while ensuring research findings provide actionable solutions.

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West Africa Democratic Governance Sustainable Development

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Ignatius Annor is an International TV broadcast journalist. He has a wealth of experience cutting across news anchoring, production, reporting and digital news. This Ghanaian born journalist holds a master's degree in International Journalism from Swansea University in the UK. He worked with ...

Analysts: Military Invasion in Niger Poses Risk to Regional Economy, Peace

11 Aug 2023  |  Voice of America  |  English  |  Military Coups in West Africa

At an emergency summit in Abuja, Nigeria, ECOWAS President Omar Touray announced the deployment of the ECOWAS standby force to Niger to restore constitutional order after the military junta overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum. Despite an ultimatum and sanctions, the junta remains supported by the youth and neighboring Burkina Faso and Mali. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, emphasized a preference for diplomatic resolution. The article compares the situation to ECOWAS's military intervention in Gambia in 2016. Security analysts Kabir Adamu and Adib Saani discuss the potential consequences of military intervention, the presence of Russian flags in Niger, and the economic impact of sanctions on West African countries, highlighting the complexity of the situation and the need for a non-aggressive solution.

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Military Coups in West Africa Political Crisis in Niger Regional Security Economic Sanctions

Richard Assheton has half a decade's experience reporting from across Europe, Africa and Asia for news brands including The Times, the Financial Times and the Guardian, covering global events and producing exclusive news and features. His subjects are not always easy interviews: he has sought out ...

Russian flags and dodgy prawns: life in Niger after the French

10 Oct 2023  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  West African Politics

Following the coup in Niger that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, the country has seen significant changes, including the departure of French troops and a shift in local sentiment towards Russia. The junta's rise to power has led to economic hardships, with aid cuts and sanctions impacting daily life. The local population expresses mixed feelings, with some supporting the coup and others criticizing the junta's actions. Humanitarian aid is at risk, and the future remains uncertain as the country navigates its new political landscape.

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West African Politics Coup in Niger French Colonial Legacy

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Arnaud Aubry is a journalist based in Paris, France.

* Profiles and stories, French media: La Vie, Jeune Afrique, Le Monde, Les Jours, France Culture

* Fixer and producer, foreign media: ESPN (with Wright Thompson), NRK (the Norwegian TV), SVT (the Swedish TV)

11 West African NGOs file complaint against Vincent Bolloré: 'We want to set a precedent'

18 Mar 2023  |  La Vie.fr  |  French  |  West Africa

A coalition of 11 West African NGOs, led by Restitution Afrique, has filed a complaint with the Paris Financial Prosecutor's Office against the Bolloré Group, accusing it of 'receiving' and 'money laundering'. The complaint highlights the group's alleged preferential relationships with African political leaders, which reportedly allowed it to secure major port concessions in several West African countries without competitive bidding, often in exchange for financial and political support. The NGOs aim to set a legal precedent with this action.

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West Africa Legal Action Corporate Misconduct

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Arwa Barkallah is a journalist based in Dakar, Senegal. Multi skilled and multilingual TV and Radio and online  journalist reporter, producer. f

Notorious Nigerien Weapons Broker Lands Secret Arms Deal in Senegal

01 Oct 2023  |  OCCRP  |  English  |  West African Politics

A Senegalese state agency signed a $77 million arms deal with Lavie Commercial Brokers, a firm linked to notorious West African businessman Aboubakar Hima. The deal, signed by the Environment Ministry, bypassed standard bidding processes and raised concerns about potential corruption and inflated pricing. Hima, known for fraudulent arms deals in Niger and Nigeria, may have sought to obscure his involvement. Experts questioned the necessity and transparency of the contract, highlighting the risks of corruption and the impact on Senegal's stability. Calls for an investigation into the deal have been made by transparency advocates.

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West African Politics Arms Deal Corruption

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Paul Arnaud DEGUENON - Journalist, Director, and Filmmaker based in Cotonou, Benin.

With a rich and diverse career in the media and communication field, I have established myself as an influential figure in the audiovisual industry across Africa. My professional journey began at ORTB, the public ...

Withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS: What are the implications?

29 Jan 2024  |  Benin Web TV  |  French  |  West Africa

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, led by military juntas, have withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as of January 28, citing the need to meet the expectations and aspirations of their populations. This move is seen as a defiance against ECOWAS, which has been promoting democracy and rule of law in response to coups. The withdrawal could have significant economic impacts, affecting intra-regional trade, movement of people and goods, infrastructure projects, and the introduction of a West African currency. Security-wise, it may hinder regional coordination against threats like terrorism. Socially, it could strain cultural and historical ties and exacerbate humanitarian challenges. The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) emphasizes national sovereignty and could justify the withdrawal, but it faces its own challenges in coordination and human rights. The situation calls for careful evolution and potential negotiations to avoid a complete break with ECOWAS.

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West Africa Regional Integration Economic Impact Security Challenges

Sophie Douce is a journalist based in Paris, France. TV and print journalism.

Emigration: off the coast of Dakar, the deadly drift of a canoe

27 Sept 2024  |  www.la-croix.com  |  French  |  West Africa

A tragic incident off the coast of Dakar, Senegal, where 34 bodies were found in a drifting canoe, highlights the ongoing migration crisis in West Africa. The victims, mostly young men and women, showed signs of malnutrition, having been adrift for about a month. The incident underscores the perilous journeys undertaken by migrants aiming for the Canary Islands, a gateway to Europe. The Senegalese Navy recovered the bodies, and efforts to identify them continue. Local communities, particularly in Mbour, are deeply affected, with many families still awaiting news of missing relatives. The tragedy has sparked discussions on the lack of employment opportunities in Senegal, driving young people to risk their lives for a better future. Despite government promises to crack down on human traffickers, the migration trend persists, fueled by economic hardships.

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West Africa Migration Tragedy

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Paul Ejime is a Global Affairs Analyst. A widely traveled journalist, former War Correspondent and author, he is an independent Consultant on Communications and Media development and Governance Issues, such as peace and security and elections.

The Black Sheep In Ecowas

01 Feb 2025  |  The Standard Newspaper | Gambia  |  English  |  West African Politics

Ecowas faces challenges with member states undermining its principles, notably Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea. Political tensions are rising in Cote d'Ivoire, Gambia, Togo, and Guinea Bissau, with leaders like Alassane Ouattara and Adama Barrow criticized for their political ambitions. Togo's Faure Gnassingbé is perpetuating a political dynasty, while Guinea Bissau's Umaro Embalo extends his mandate. Ecowas is urged to transform into an 'Ecowas of People' and address governance issues, leveraging recent AU appointments. Citizens are encouraged to hold leaders accountable, emphasizing the power of civic engagement.

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West African Politics Political Instability Ecowas Challenges

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Maurizio Geri is a freelance journalist, also Italian Navy lieutenant reservist POLAD and EU Marie Curie Postdoc fellow 2024/2026 (2024 at GMU in Washington DC, 2025 at GMF and VUB in Brussels, 2026 at Ca’ Foscari University in Venice) to research the EU-NATO cooperation in Emerging Disruptive ...

West Africa power vacuum is being filled by Russia

25 Oct 2023  |  thehill.com  |  English  |  Russian Influence in Africa

Russia is exploiting the power vacuum in West Africa, marked by corruption and instability, to expand its influence through mercenaries and strategic alliances with local dictators. The West, preoccupied with the Ukraine conflict and Chinese investments, has overlooked Africa's potential as a political arena. Russia's lack of colonial history and minimal financial investment have facilitated its strategic mission, posing a threat to Africa's development and global stability. The article advocates for Western investment in moral and civil society leaders to counter Russian influence and address Africa's challenges, emphasizing the role of organizations like the Muslim World League in mobilizing against issues like climate change.

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West Africa Political Instability Russian Influence in Africa International Relations

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I am a freelance multimedia journalist and filmmaker with an eye for news and a special focus on Africa and Europe. I am based in Dakar, Senegal, from where I cover mainly West-Africa. I am skilled in producing, reporting, filming, writing and editing. I can make audio and video for broadcast or ...

Ecowas is to blame for the departure of West African 'coup countries'

01 Oct 2023  |  Het Parool  |  Dutch  |  West African Politics

Since military coups in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, these countries have distanced themselves from the West African economic union Ecowas, culminating in a joint announcement to leave the bloc and abandon the CFA currency. Ecowas's demands for elections and threats of military intervention, supported by France, have strained relations. The three countries criticize Ecowas for inconsistent policies and lack of support against terrorist groups. They aim to reduce neocolonial dependencies and seek new alliances with countries like China, Russia, and Turkey. However, their landlocked status poses challenges for trade, prompting negotiations with Morocco for access to the Atlantic Ocean.

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West African Politics Economic Sanctions Geopolitics

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Abdulwasiu Hassan is a multimedia journalist based in Abuja, Nigeria.

Sahel Alliance: Why did Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali sign a pact?

25 Sept 2023  |  Botswana's struggle to have greater share of its diamond  |  English  |  West Africa

A new military alliance among Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso is poised to significantly impact the West African subregion, potentially challenging the relevance of ECOWAS. The alliance, driven by anti-French sentiment and a focus on counter-terrorism, aims to combine military and economic efforts. The French government has agreed to withdraw its troops and diplomats from Niger, highlighting the country's natural resource wealth as a possible underlying reason. The alliance's open-door policy for like-minded countries could further alter the regional power dynamics.

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West Africa Military Alliance ECOWAS

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MOHAMADOU HOUMFA is a french-speaking journalist based in Washington, United States of America.

Benin: How the Opposition is Organizing for Patrice Talon's Succession, According to Daniel Edah

30 Jan 2025  |  Voice of America  |  French  |  West African Affairs

Daniel Edah, a political figure, discusses the organization of the opposition in Benin for the succession of President Patrice Talon. The conversation, held in Washington D.C. with Mohamadou Houmfa, touches on the broader sociopolitical context in Benin and West Africa, highlighting the strategies and challenges faced by the opposition in preparing for future leadership transitions.

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West African Affairs Politics

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Isaac Kaledzi is an experienced and award winning multi media journalist from Ghana. He has worked for several media brands both in Ghana and on the International scene including DW, VOA, TRT World and Africa Feeds.

Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger: Alliance doomed to failure?

05 Oct 2023  |  www.dw.com  |  Portuguese  |  West Africa

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have announced plans to form a new confederation, abandoning the G5 Sahel, but experts doubt its success due to ongoing pressures from terrorist groups. The new alliance, Aliança dos Estados do Sahel, faces significant challenges, including lack of capacity, infrastructure, and local support. The three countries have severed ties with France and the EU, reflecting strong anti-Western sentiments. Experts argue that the new alliance is unlikely to effectively combat extremism and that re-establishing relations with CEDEAO should be a priority to access global support. The security situation in the region has deteriorated since military coups, with millions displaced and terrorist groups gaining ground.

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West Africa Political Alliances Terrorism

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Federico Larsen is a journalist based in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
-Giornalista bilingue italiano-spagnolo, specializzato in politica internazionale e membro dell'Istituto di Relazioni Internazionali dell'Università Nazionale di La Plata. Lunga esperienza in radio, giornali e riviste.
-Periodista ...

The World This Week

07 Oct 2023  |  Limes  |  Italian  |  West African Peacekeeping

Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Saudi Arabia marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations, with strategic agreements and partnerships being formed. The ongoing war in Ukraine sees continued Russian attacks on critical infrastructure, leading to severe energy crises. In Peru, President Pedro Castillo is deposed following a failed self-coup, highlighting the country's political instability. West African leaders agree to establish a regional peacekeeping force to combat jihadism and restore constitutional order, reflecting the region's ongoing security challenges.

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West African Peacekeeping China-Saudi Arabia Relations War in Ukraine Political Crisis in Peru

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Felix Onuah is a journalist based in Abuja, Nigeria.

Nigeria’s Tinubu urges re-engagement with regional juntas to promote democracy

10 Dec 2023  |  whbl.com  |  English  |  West Africa

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu called for the West African bloc ECOWAS to re-engage with countries under military rule to support their transition to democracy. Speaking at an ECOWAS summit in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized the need for realistic and short transition plans and suggested providing technical and material support. He also addressed the economic sanctions imposed on the juntas and the security alliance formed by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Tinubu led ECOWAS leaders into a closed-door meeting to discuss these issues further.

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West Africa Democracy Military Rule

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Afolake Oyinloye is a journalist based in Limoges, France.
Journalist/Travel & Business enthusiast/Moderator

France to boost military support in Ivory Coast

21 Feb 2023  |  www.africanews.com  |  English  |  West Africa Security

The French Minister of Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu, praised the evolution of the Ivorian army over the past decade during his visit to Abidjan. He pledged to boost military support to Ivory Coast as part of France's adjusted strategy in West Africa, following Burkina Faso's decision to expel French troops. Lecornu emphasized the importance of training and human resources in strengthening the Ivorian army. French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to visit sub-Saharan Africa in early March, though he is expected to avoid former French colonies in the Sahel.

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West Africa Security Military Support

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Ben Shemang is a journalist based in Abuja, Nigeria.

ECOWAS: Inhaling Hot Pepper and the Formation of Russiophone?

03 Feb 2024  |  prnigeria.com  |  English  |  West African Politics

The article explores the emergence of 'Russiophone' West African countries, focusing on Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, which have military regimes and strained relations with ECOWAS and France. These countries are forming closer ties with Russia, leading to potential geopolitical and economic shifts in the region. The article discusses the implications of these alliances, including economic sanctions, border closures, and potential water conflicts. It also examines the broader impact on regional stability, democracy, and economic policies, highlighting the complex dynamics between former colonial powers and new alliances.

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West African Politics Diplomatic Relations Economic Sanctions

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Award-winning journalist covering politics, business and economics in the Gulf and Southeast Asia including OPEC and the impact of the global financial crisis. Former correspondent Philippines for the FT, Former co-presenter 'Business Breakfast' and 'Business Tonight', Dubai-Eye 103.8FM, Former ...

Senegal’s anti-establishment candidate almost certain to become president

02 Oct 2023  |  www.newsbreak.com  |  English  |  West Africa

Bassirou Diomaye Faye is poised to become Senegal's next president after his main rival, Amadou Ba, conceded defeat. Faye's victory signifies a shift towards leftwing pan-Africanism and a potential overhaul of Senegal's economic policies, including renegotiating mining and hydrocarbon contracts. The election result is a rejection of incumbent President Macky Sall's administration, which has been criticized for failing to alleviate poverty and unemployment. Faye's win is also seen as a triumph for democracy in West Africa, a region recently plagued by military coups.

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West Africa Election Political Change

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Kim Willsher is an award winning journalist based in Paris, France, writing for The Guardian, The Observer and the Los Angeles Times.

Junta leaders in Niger refuse to let top US official meet ousted president

08 Aug 2023  |  the Guardian  |  English  |  West African Politics

Junta leaders in Niger have refused to allow a senior US official, Victoria Nuland, to meet the ousted president Mohamed Bazoum, rejecting calls to restore democracy following last month's coup. Nuland described the talks as 'frank and difficult,' with the junta showing no willingness to return to civilian rule. The West African bloc Ecowas is preparing for a potential military intervention after the coup leaders ignored a deadline to reinstate Bazoum. The situation has led to increased tensions in the region, with Niger closing its airspace and neighboring countries showing support for the junta. The coup has significant implications for international relations, given Niger's strategic importance in the fight against Islamist militants and its resources.

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West African Politics Coup in Niger International Relations

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Kossi Woussou is a journalist based in Lomé, Togo, with a distinguished career in reporting on West African politics. His expertise particularly shines in covering the economical, social and political developments in Togo and West Africa. 

As a correspondent for Voice of America (VOA Africa) and ...

Family Dynasty Hatches Plan to Indefinitely Rule Togo After Vote

29 Apr 2024  |  Yahoo Entertainment  |  English  |  West African Politics

Togo's President Faure Gnassingbé is poised to secure lifelong power if his party retains a parliamentary majority, following a controversial constitutional amendment that shifts executive power to the president of a council of ministers. This move is seen as a strategy to bypass presidential term limits and extend the Gnassingbé family's 57-year rule. The amendment has drawn criticism from the US State Department and experts who view it as a deliberate attempt to sidestep democratic processes. Despite economic growth, most Togolese live in poverty, and the opposition faces significant challenges in contesting the new system.

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West African Politics Political Dynasties Democratic Backsliding

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I’m an independent multimedia journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya, covering East Africa. I am a regular contributor to the Voice of America, Al Jazeera English online and other International outlets. I specialize in covering security and politics in the region.

ECOWAS Unity Put to Test as West African Coup Crisis Deepens

12 Sept 2023  |  khmer.voanews.com  |  Khmer  |  West African Politics

The unity of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is being tested as the political crisis in West Africa deepens due to a series of coups. The article highlights the challenges faced by ECOWAS in maintaining stability and addressing the political turmoil in the region.

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West African Politics Political Crisis

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