The first column of French armed formations left Niamey. This was reported by the Reuters news agency, citing sources.
Reuters reports that French military convoys have begun leaving the location of bases in south-west Niger. The agency said the move was another blow to France’s influence in West Africa.
“In a statement read out on state television, the military government urged citizens to co-operate in the troop movements, which will involve some 1,500 French soldiers leaving Niger on their way to Chad,” Reuters notes.
The agency notes that several dozen members of France’s armed forces left Niger on a military plane on Monday. Reuters emphasises that Niger’s military will provide security for French convoys leaving by land.