US reorients Sahel policy toward trade and security partnerships

The recent visit by Nick Checker, head of the US State Department’s African Affairs Bureau, to Mali signals Washington’s renewed engagement with the Sahel—but with a strategic shift. The United States is recalibrating its approach across three key dimensions: prioritizing mineral trade diplomacy, refocusing security cooperation (including scaled-down permanent military presence), and transitioning from broad humanitarian aid to targeted economic and security partnerships.

Expert analysis: what’s driving US policy changes in the Sahel

DW: During Nick Checker’s visit to Bamako, he met with Mali’s foreign minister and interim leader Assimi Goïta. How has US foreign policy in the Sahel evolved under the Trump administration, and what are Washington’s strategic goals in West Africa?

Dr. Gnaka Lagoke: The Niger coup exposed a clear divergence between US and French approaches. While Paris pushed for Bazoum’s reinstatement, Washington adopted a more measured stance. Even after Niger’s new authorities requested the closure of US military bases and the withdrawal of American troops—initially under Biden—America avoided escalating into a confrontational stance against Niamey.

In today’s geopolitical climate—amid US competition with Russia and China—Washington’s establishment has emphasized two priorities: securing critical mineral resources and reinforcing economic ties. The Sahel is rich in minerals vital to American industries, and this resource imperative is now central to US foreign policy in the region.

This pattern mirrors US engagement in Venezuela, Iran, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Sahel is no exception.

Why Nigeria is emerging as Washington’s key West African partner

DW: With no permanent US military bases in Niger, why has Nigeria become the preferred partner for the United States in West Africa?

Dr. Gnaka Lagoke: When President Trump pledged to protect Christians allegedly targeted by Islamist militants in Nigeria, the US—with Nigerian government approval—conducted airstrikes in northern regions. However, analysts widely agree that such limited strikes cannot dismantle militant networks. The deeper motive likely involves securing Nigerian oil and other strategic resources.

This dual focus on security and economics underpins Trump’s Sahel strategy. It may well lead to the establishment of new military bases in the region. Notably, some facilities previously located in Niger have reportedly been relocated to Benin and Côte d’Ivoire.

Potential benefits for AES countries in aligning with the US

DW: What advantages could the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) gain by cooperating with a Trump-led United States?

Dr. Gnaka Lagoke: First, Washington offers an alternative negotiation platform—one that contrasts sharply with the EU’s punitive stance toward AES members. This presents an opportunity for sovereign decision-making in a multipolar world.

Second, amid rising tensions between Western powers and BRICS nations, the US provides African countries with strategic leverage. By emphasizing respect for sovereignty—particularly in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—Washington appeals to local sentiment.

Yet, historical experience raises caution. Reports suggest networks involving France, the United States, and others have sought regime change in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Could this be a strategy of calculated ambiguity? Only time will tell.

One thing is clear: the Sahel’s future hinges on how these nations navigate shifting alliances while safeguarding their independence and interests.