Niamey, Niger – January 30, 2025 – The Minister of National Defense of Niger, Lieutenant General Salifou Modi, held an important meeting today with Major General Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi, Secretary-General of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC), and his accompanying delegation at the Ministry of Defense headquarters in Niamey. The discussions centered around Niger’s critical role in the fight against terrorism and the ongoing collaboration between Niger and the IMCTC.
During the meeting, Major General Al-Moghedi commended Niger for its steadfast efforts in combating terrorism and highlighted the nation's continued support and active participation in the IMCTC since its establishment. He underscored the importance of Niger as a key partner in the Sahel countries program, a crucial initiative aimed at addressing the growing threat of terrorism in the region. This program, designed to promote moderation and tolerance, incorporates a variety of activities, including specialized training, awareness-building campaigns, and scientific initiatives focused on combating extremist ideologies, countering terrorism financing, and enhancing military coordination.
Al-Moghedi emphasized that Niger’s strategic position in West Africa makes it an invaluable ally in the global fight against terrorism. He praised the country’s dedication to the IMCTC’s mission, noting that Niger’s involvement is pivotal in ensuring the success of counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel, a region increasingly targeted by extremist groups.
Lieutenant General Modi, in turn, expressed his gratitude for the visit, recognizing it as a clear demonstration of the IMCTC's commitment to its member states, especially those in the Sahel region. He acknowledged the profound challenges faced by the Sahel countries due to the presence of violent extremist groups and terrorist operations. Modi highlighted the urgent need for modern awareness programs and comprehensive training to better equip both military and civilian leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to tackle these evolving threats effectively.
In his remarks, Lieutenant General Modi also took the opportunity to thank the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its leadership and unwavering support of the IMCTC since its inception. He praised Saudi Arabia’s significant role in shaping the coalition's success, noting that the Kingdom’s commitment to combating terrorism has set a global benchmark, providing a model for other nations to follow in the fight against extremism.
The meeting between the two military leaders serves as a testament to the strengthening cooperation between Niger and the IMCTC, reinforcing the coalition’s role as a vital force in counterterrorism efforts across the Islamic world. As the Sahel region continues to face mounting security challenges, the partnership between Niger and the IMCTC remains integral to promoting peace, stability, and security in the region.