Chad’s interim president, Mahamat Idriss Deby, has warned that Chad may withdraw from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), a regional security coalition aimed at combating insurgent groups in the Lake Chad region.
The announcement follows a deadly attack in late October, where suspected Boko Haram militants killed around 40 Chadian soldiers.
During a visit to the Lake Chad region, which spans parts of Chad, Nigeria, Niger, and Cameroon, Deby criticized the MNJTF for failing to effectively coordinate against shared threats. He highlighted ongoing issues with cooperation among member countries, stating, “This force — created with the aim of pooling efforts and intelligence — seems to be in a slump.”
Deby’s comments raise concerns about the future of the MNJTF, as Chad’s military is considered one of the most capable forces in the region. A potential withdrawal would be a significant setback for the coalition’s mission to combat insurgencies such as Boko Haram and Islamic State militants in West Africa.
The MNJTF’s effectiveness has been hampered by divisions and coordination challenges. No immediate response has been given by Nigeria, Niger, or Cameroon regarding Deby’s statement.
