In an exclusive interview on Monday, February 12, 2024, on National Television in Niamey, the President of Niger, Brigadier General Abdourahamane Tiani, provided reassurance regarding the creation of a single currency for the AES (Association of Sahel-Saharan States). He emphasized that currency represents sovereignty, and their commitment lies in reclaiming total sovereignty. President Tiani underscored the need to scrutinize the historical records of African states, analyze them, and make decisions in the best interest of their people, making it clear that the era of African states being exploited for financial gain by France is over.
President Abdourahamane Tiani declared that France has exploited them for over 107 years, and it is time for France to compensate for 65 years of systematic resource pillaging and the subsequent 42 years. He expressed the intention to establish a timeline to ensure equitable reconciliation with France, demanding restitution for the historical exploitation.
Regarding the creation of a single currency, President Tiani stated that it signifies a move away from colonization. He asserted that the AES states have expert advisors, and the decision regarding the currency will be made at an appropriate time, emphasizing their determination to break free from historical economic exploitation.
