“We've been monitoring and identifying indications and warnings for a number of years. Just for statistics, back in 2008, Islamic jihadists on the global scene, only four percent were on the African continent. Now that number is up to 40%,” Langley said on Sunday.
Langley added that AFRICOM’s mission of providing indications, warning, monitoring, and responding to the threats posed by terrorists throughout the region is aimed at protecting US soil.
The general further noted that African states would lead the way in addressing the challenges facing the continent, and that the US would be the one enabling their ability to face them.
Langley’s remarks come amid the ongoing complete withdrawal of approximately 600 US troops from Niger from two air bases, where manned and unmanned aircraft have been deployed on missions against terror groups. The withdrawal must be concluded no later than September 15.
The military pullout was initiated in March after a Nigerien military spokesperson said the country's transitional government, which took power in a coup in July 2023, had terminated the military agreement with the US with immediate effect, citing the interests of the Nigerien people.