Thirteen Nigerien soldiers died in two separate attacks by armed militants, the army confirmed on Wednesday. The incidents occurred within days of each other, exposing Niger’s ongoing security challenges.
The first attack happened on March 15 at a gold mining site in the Tillaberi region, near the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso. During the confrontation, nine soldiers were killed by fighters linked to the Daesh terror group. The situation worsened when around 100 militants crossed from Burkina Faso on motorcycles to reinforce the assault.
In response, Niger and Burkina Faso launched a coordinated air and ground operation. The military reported that 55 militants were killed, though seven Nigerien soldiers were wounded in the process.
Boko Haram Targets Military Outpost
Two days later, Boko Haram militants attacked a military outpost in the southeast. Around 300 fighters stormed the base, using booby-trapped vehicles and explosives. The assault resulted in the deaths of four soldiers before the situation was brought under control.
Security Threats Escalate
Niger continues to face persistent threats from armed groups operating in the Sahel region. These groups often target both security forces and civilians, causing widespread instability. Cross-border attacks have increased, especially near Lake Chad and other remote regions.
To address these challenges, Niger is collaborating with Mali and Burkina Faso to create a 5,000-strong joint security force. The initiative aims to tackle insurgencies, disrupt criminal networks, and prevent human trafficking across shared borders.
Security analysts warn that continued regional cooperation is essential to contain the militant threat and protect long-term stability in West Africa.