Canadian
special forces participating in military training in southeast Niger,
near the border with Nigeria, were ordered to withdraw recently to avoid
battling with Boko Haram Islamists, the military said Thursday.
The
troops had been posted to the town of Diffa, where the government of
Niger declared a state of emergency on February 11 following attacks in
the region that borders Boko Haram’s stronghold in northeast Nigeria.
The
Canadians are participating in US-sponsored counterterrorism training
that started on February 16 and is due to wrap up on March 9.
The
annual program has 1,300 troops from 19 countries training militaries
in five African countries in shooting, movement, communications, and
mission planning.
Dominique
Tessier from Canada’s defense department did not say how many Canadians
were at risk of confrontation with Boko Haram, but noted in an email to
AFP that “several members” were relocated from Diffa to other areas
such as Agadez and Niamey in Niger and N’Djamena in Chad “due to
security issues.”
“This
was seen as a prudent measure given the current security situation in
the region,” Tessier said, adding the exercise continues.
“Recent
events in Niger involving Boko Haram do highlight training such as this
to help collective efforts against violent extremist organizations.”
The
Canadian special forces also stand ready to provide humanitarian or
other assistance, should Ottawa decide to offer help, Tessier said.
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