Ivory Coast announces withdrawal of French troops
French troops will soon begin departing from Ivory Coast, the West African country’s President Alassane Ouattara announced in his New Year address.
“We have decided on a coordinated and organised withdrawal of French troops,” said Mr Ouattara in the televised speech.
The departure will begin in January, according to the president, who also referred to the modernisation of the Ivorian army.
The location of the French naval infantry battalion in Port Bouet would, therefore, be handed over to the country’s own forces, he said.
Around 600 French soldiers are currently stationed in Ivory Coast.
Several West African states, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic, had previously called on France to withdraw its troops.
France maintained a military presence in countries in the region even after the end of its colonial rule, being most recently involved in the fight against Islamist extremists.
When the French troops leave the Ivory Coast, the only remaining French military bases in Africa will be in Gabon and Djibouti on the Horn of Africa.
(dpa/NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
States
30th Anniversary: Gov. Nwifuru hails Ebonyi leaders for laying solid foundation
Mr Nwifuru stated, “We are very united, calm and hardworking people.”
Heading 1
NiMet predicts three-day thunderstorms, moderate rains across Nigeria from Monday
The agency advised residents to stay away from tall trees to avoid injuries from falling branches or broken trees.
Lagos
I’m best candidate for Lagos in 2027, says Hamzat
Mr Ojelabi urged Nigerians to draw closer to God and have faith in Him.
Showbiz
Barry’s veto saves three housemates from eviction as BBNaija Season 11 names final 10
Barry’s decision came at a crucial stage of the competition.
States
Police intercept firearm during stop-and-search operation in Anambra
The police spokesperson identified the suspects as Joseph Ekwulugo, 33, and Somtochukwu Enyiobi, 29.
Heading 3
Tinubu doesn’t need to be physically present to work; he will return from vacation this week: Presidency
Mr Onanuga stated, “Nigeria’s President is hale and hearty. He has been on a working vacation, which he is perfectly entitled to.”
