Spotlight | Niger
Junta's difficulties in locating US hostage abducted by jihadists

Niger
The spin doctors polishing Abdourahamane Tchiani's image

To bolster his reputation tarnished by the deteriorating security situation, the head of state has turned to two experienced journalists. One of them has close links with the Russian community present in Niger.

Sahel
AES members take another step away from the OECD

The annual meeting of the OECD-backed Food Crisis Prevention Network took place without the participation of the three military-junta-headed countries of the Alliance of Sahel States, which chose not to send delegations.

The New Guard
Nigeria, Niger, Central African Republic

Every Wednesday, Africa Intelligence spotlights a new generation of movers and shakers in business and politics.

NigeriaAyo Sopitan, trader turned miner

NigerSalim Gado, Tchiani's ambitious right-hand man

Central African RepublicWilliam Ndjapou, the rising adviser

Niger
Army counts heavy equipment losses after Niamey base attack

Half a dozen military aircraft were destroyed at the end of January during a terrorist assault targeting the airport in Niger's capital. The loss of these valuable reconnaissance and attack assets is set to hamper the air force's campaign against jihadist groups.

Ivory Coast
Defence services supplier Sincerus sets up in the north

A Virginia-based service provider is strengthening its presence in Ivory Coast after being awarded a drone supply contract funded by the US State Department.

Niger
Niamey pays off debts to the World Bank

Following payment of an outstanding bill of $15m by Niger, the World Bank has restarted the main projects it finances in the country, after an interruption lasting a few weeks.

Niger
Prime minister holds talks with IMF boss in Washington

On 3 December, Niger Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine held lengthy talks in Washington with the IMF's managing director, Kristalina Georgieva.

Niger
US grants Tchiani's junta a sizeable favour

The US State Department recently gave the green light for the delivery of spare parts for aircraft used by the Nigerien army. These had been under embargo since the coup d'état of 26 July 2023.

Niger
Niamey paying the price for UN cuts

As the United Nations grapples with a financial crisis, it is about to cut a good proportion of its staff in Niger, which risks exacerbating a number of problems in the country.