U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young , deputy to the commander for civilian engagement, traveled to Niger to attend the presidential inauguration of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum  in the capital city Niamey, April 02, 2021.  U.S. Ambassador to Niger, Eric P. Whitaker, led the delegation. (Credit: Africom.mil)

By Gary Raynaldo    DIPLOMATIC  TIMES

Ambassador Andrew Young, deputy to the commander for civil-military engagement for U.S. Africa Command,  travel  to Niger to attend the presidential inauguration of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum on April 2.   Bazoum, 61-years-old, won a contested presidential runoff vote in February to succeed Mahamadou Issoufou, who stepped down after completing his two five-year terms in office.  Niger has been plagued by  growing insecurity and attacks by armed groups along the country’s border with Mali, Burkina Faso and Nigeria.   U.S. Ambassador to Niger, Eric P. Whitaker led the delegation, which included representatives from diplomacy, defense, and development, according to AFRICOM.  Barbara Hughes, senior development advisor for U.S. Africa Command, and U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Fletcher Washington, U.S. Africa Command’s deputy director of operations accompanied Ambassadors Whitaker and Young.

“I was honored to represent U.S. Africa Command in a delegation demonstrating American diplomatic, development, and defense support to Niger. We were pleased to join distinguished partners from several African and European nations to mark this moment in Niger’s history. The transfer of power between two democratically elected presidents is a testament to Niger strengthening its democracy at home and serving as an impressive example abroad.”

-Ambassador Andrew Young

Niger is a critical West African partner and plays an important role in contributing to regional security and countering violent extremist organizations,  Ambassador Whitaker  noted.

“Niger is vital to countering violent extremist organization efforts. We value the relationship we have built over the years and look forward to continued cooperation that contributes to regional stability.”

-U.S. Ambassador to Niger  Eric Whitaker

President Bazoum follows President Mahamadou Issoufou.     According to AFRICOM,  the inauguration marked the first transition of power between two democratically elected presidents since the nation gained its independence in 1960.