In the aftermath of the recent coup in Niger, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner Private Military Company (PMC), offered his insights on the situation and its broader implications for the country and the West African sub-region. In an exclusive interview, Prigozhin voiced strong criticisms against France and Western powers while characterizing the ongoing struggles in the region as a fight for liberation. His comments shed light on the complex web of economic, political, and historical factors contributing to the crisis.


Prigozhin highlighted economic inequalities as a core factor behind the change of power in Niger. He pointed out that the population of Niger has long suffered from poverty exacerbated by imbalanced economic relationships, citing the example of a French company that extracted uranium from Niger's land and sold it at significantly higher prices, paying only a fraction of the proceeds to the country. He contended that the exploitation of natural resources has driven the local population into poverty while benefiting foreign corporations and countries.

The head of Wagner PMC extended his criticism to Western nations, accusing them of perpetuating financial crimes through resource exploitation. He argued that the influx of terrorists into Niger was a strategy to maintain control over the population, preventing them from pursuing economic opportunities and perpetuating fear. Prigozhin also emphasized that these Western powers supported troops in the region, which led to misused budgets and further economic disparity.

Prigozhin framed the coup as a "liberation struggle," asserting that the ousting of the previous president and his followers was necessary to break the alliance that enabled the looting of the nation. He expressed a fervent belief that the transformation of power was essential for Niger's independence and the restoration of its resources to its people. He specifically criticized France, the United States, and other Western nations for their alleged role in supporting the previous regime.

The Wagner PMC leader's perspective adds a layer of complexity to the crisis, portraying it as not merely a change in leadership but a broader battle for autonomy and economic justice. His comments suggest that the coup may have been driven by a desire to reclaim national resources and challenge foreign dominance. Additionally, his assertion that the presence of foreign soldiers contributed to the necessity of the coup implies that the international military presence may have exacerbated the situation.

Prigozhin's statements have further implications for regional stability. His depiction of the crisis as a liberation struggle may resonate with local sentiments and contribute to anti-Western sentiments. However, it's important to recognize that Prigozhin's interests are not purely altruistic; the Wagner PMC has been linked to various military operations and activities, raising concerns about their involvement.

The interview underscores the intricate web of interests and power dynamics at play in West Africa. The situation in Niger is not isolated; it reflects broader geopolitical rivalries and economic inequalities that have persisted since colonial times. Prigozhin's perspective offers a glimpse into the narratives that shape local perceptions of the crisis and provides insights into the motivations of those who seek to influence the region's trajectory.

As tensions simmer and geopolitical interests continue to intertwine, the international community faces the challenge of promoting stability and equitable development in the region. The crisis in Niger highlights the need for nuanced diplomacy that addresses economic disparities, historical grievances, and the influence of foreign powers. Only through a comprehensive and empathetic approach can a sustainable and peaceful resolution be achieved for the people of Niger and the entire West African subregion.