Togo strengthens military partnerships amid rising jihadist threats in West Africa

Recent developments reveal Lomé’s strategic shift in regional security cooperation, as the Togolese government actively explores new alliances to bolster its defense against escalating jihadist activities across the Sahel. This evolving security landscape underscores the shifting dynamics of international military engagements in West Africa.

Hidden security cooperation with Ankara

Behind closed doors, Togo has been cultivating a discreet yet robust partnership with Turkey since 2021. The collaboration focuses primarily on aerial surveillance capabilities and specialized military training, with Turkish defense experts reportedly assisting in establishing monitoring systems along the country’s northern borders. These covert operations have expanded significantly over the past three years, particularly in the Savanes Region where jihadist cells have attempted multiple incursions.

The Togolese government’s decision to engage Ankara reflects a calculated approach to address security gaps without drawing immediate international attention. Turkish military advisors have reportedly been deployed to undisclosed locations, where they conduct joint patrols with Togolese forces and provide intelligence-sharing protocols.

Russia’s Africa Corps makes strategic entry

Since early 2025, another major player has entered Togo’s security equation: Russia’s Africa Corps. While the exact nature of their involvement remains classified, reports indicate the deployment of military advisors and logistical support specialists to key installations. The Africa Corps’ presence follows months of negotiations between Togolese officials and Moscow, culminating in agreements that may include arms transfers and counterterrorism training programs.

The timing of this partnership coincides with Togo’s urgent need to modernize its military hardware. Analysts suggest the Africa Corps could provide much-needed technical expertise in operating advanced weaponry systems, particularly in the fight against well-armed jihadist factions operating near the Burkina Faso border.

President Gnassingbé’s calculated security strategy

Under President Faure Gnassingbé’s leadership, Togo has adopted a pragmatic approach to regional security challenges. The government’s strategy balances traditional partnerships with Western allies against emerging opportunities with non-traditional security providers. This multi-aligned approach aims to diversify Togo’s defense capabilities while maintaining diplomatic flexibility.

The president’s decision to engage both Turkey and Russia reflects a broader trend among West African nations seeking to reduce dependence on former colonial powers. By cultivating relationships with Ankara and Moscow, Lomé gains access to alternative military technologies and training programs that may not be available through traditional channels.

Challenges and controversies

The evolving security alliances have not been without controversy. Critics argue that Togo’s growing ties with Russia could potentially undermine regional stability by introducing new geopolitical tensions. Others express concerns about the long-term implications of military cooperation with governments accused of human rights violations in other African contexts.

Domestically, some political analysts question the transparency of these agreements. While the government maintains that all military partnerships adhere to constitutional frameworks, opposition voices demand greater parliamentary oversight and public disclosure of security cooperation terms.

What the future holds

As jihadist threats continue to evolve across the Sahel, Togo’s security strategy appears poised for further adaptation. The government’s ability to navigate between competing international interests while maintaining national sovereignty will be closely watched by regional observers. With both Turkey and Russia establishing footholds in West Africa, the coming months may reveal whether this approach strengthens or complicates Togo’s long-term security objectives.