Niger’s military authorities have appointed new chiefs of the armed forces, two weeks after a reported mutiny attempt aimed at challenging the leadership of junta chief General Abdourahmane Tiani.
The changes followed an incident last month in which disgruntled soldiers reportedly attacked sensitive locations in the capital, Niamey. The attempted uprising was subsequently contained by government forces, with support from Russian paramilitary allies.
The appointments were announced on Friday by Abari Amitti, Director of state broadcaster Télé Sahel.
“Brigadier General Mamane Sani Kiaou, a general officer of the Nigerien armed forces, is appointed Chief of Defence Staff,” Amitti announced.
He added that “Brigadier General Abdourahmane Abou Zataka, a general officer of the Niger Armed Forces, is appointed Chief of Staff of the Army.”
The leadership changes come as Niger continues to grapple with escalating militant attacks and mounting casualties among security personnel.
Tiani seized power in a July 2023 coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. His administration has since cut ties with several Western security partners and strengthened military cooperation with Russia.
The deteriorating security situation, including persistent militant attacks and the reported killing of security personnel, has contributed to growing pressure on Niger’s military authorities.
The latest appointments are expected to further consolidate the junta’s control over the country’s armed forces following the reported mutiny attempt.
