In brief
Over 18 months after a military coup, Niger witnesses escalating violence from jihadist groups, leading to civilian and military casualties. The new regime's actions, including the expulsion of Western troops and alignment with Russia, have failed to stabilize the region, prompting criticism from experts regarding their strategies.
Article text:The West African nation of Niger continues to grapple with intensifying violence from jihadists, following a military coup that took place in July 2023. The coup, which saw military leaders asserting their ability to restore order amidst a growing insurgency, has instead led to a surge in attacks that claim the lives of both civilians and soldiers.Recent incidents in December 2024 have highlighted the deteriorating security situation, which has only worsened in the wake of the generals' takeover. Attacks have resulted in dozens of deaths, with over 20 passengers killed in a bus assault and the destruction of a village, raising serious concerns about the military's capability to ensure safety in Niger.The Islamic State has openly claimed responsibility for several of these assaults, predominantly occurring in the western regions of Niger, where both Islamic State and Al-Qaeda affiliates are known to operate. Reports from the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project indicate that jihadist groups have caused nearly double the fatalities among civilians since the coup compared to the prior 18 months. In a significant shift in military alliances, Niger's rulers have expelled French troops and ordered the withdrawal of U.S. forces from an important air base, opting instead to seek assistance from Russia and maintain ties with Turkey, which has provided drones. Despite these moves, it appears that the violence has only escalated.Rahmane Idrissa, a political scientist from Niger currently teaching at Leiden University, has criticized the government's approach, stating, “They don’t have a real strategy, except the use of sheer force.” The ongoing violence raises questions about the military's ability to fulfill its promise of stability in a nation plagued by insurgencies in recent years.
