Niger has recently made headlines due to its shifting alliances and military agreements. The country has strengthened ties with Russia, leading to the arrival of Russian military advisers and equipment, while deeming the presence of US troops 'illegal'. Additionally, Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), citing sanctions and lack of support for their military-led governments. The country's military junta has also signed a military deal with Russia, revoking EU agreements and ending EU missions in Niger.
Niger, officially the Republic of Niger, is a landlocked country in West Africa named after the Niger River. It is bordered by Libya to the northeast, Chad to the east, Nigeria to the south, Benin to the south, Burkina Faso to the southwest, Mali to the west, and Algeria to the northwest. The capital city is Niamey. Niger has a population of over 24 million people and is known for its vast deserts, including the Sahara Desert in the north. The country faces challenges such as political instability, poverty, and security threats from jihadist groups in the region.
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Recent attacks in the Sahel region have resulted in significant civilian casualties. In Niger, at least 44 people were killed during a mosque attack attributed to the Islamic State in the Great Sahara. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso's Journalists Association leaders were arrested amid increasing media repression. The situation reflects a broader trend of violence and instability in the region.
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African nations are vying for qualification in the 2026 World Cup. Nigeria's recent draw against Zimbabwe leaves them fourth in Group C, while Ghana leads Group I. Egypt and Morocco also secured important victories, enhancing their qualification prospects.
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French prosecutors have requested a seven-year prison sentence for former President Nicolas Sarkozy over alleged illegal campaign financing linked to Muammar Gaddafi. Sarkozy, who denies the charges, is already serving a one-year sentence for a separate case. The verdict is expected later this year.
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Tensions between Mali and Algeria have escalated following the downing of a Malian drone, leading to the closure of airspace between the two nations. The Alliance of Sahel States condemned Algeria's actions as a violation of international law, while Mali accused Algeria of sponsoring terrorism. Diplomatic relations have deteriorated significantly in recent months.
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Three American citizens, Marcel Malanga, Tyler Thompson, and Benjamin Zalman-Polun, have been repatriated to the U.S. after their death sentences in Congo were commuted to life imprisonment. This decision follows a meeting between U.S. officials and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, amid ongoing discussions about a minerals deal between the two nations.
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Russia is enhancing military cooperation with Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso amid their shift away from France. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov hosted a summit in Moscow, where he pledged support for combat training and military supplies to the three countries, which have distanced themselves from Western influence following recent coups.
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Amnesty International warns that recent U.S. aid cuts and military actions against Houthi rebels will exacerbate Yemen's humanitarian crisis. With over half the population reliant on aid, the reductions could lead to catastrophic consequences for vulnerable groups, including women and children.
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Gabon prepares for its first presidential election since the 2023 coup, with interim President Brice Oligui Nguema facing allegations of unfair practices. Meanwhile, Niger's junta has released some political prisoners, but former President Mohamed Bazoum remains detained amid ongoing human rights concerns.
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Recent attacks in West Africa have resulted in significant civilian casualties, with at least 26 killed in Nigeria's Borno State and reports of executions in Mali. The violence is attributed to ongoing insurgencies and military actions by extremist groups, raising concerns over human rights violations and regional stability.
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Over 4,000 migrants have been expelled from Algeria to Niger this month, following a mass deportation on April 19. The expulsions occur amid rising tensions between Algeria and its southern neighbors, with many migrants fleeing poverty and conflict. Alarmphone Sahara reports significant human rights concerns regarding these actions.
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Tensions between Algeria and the Alliance of Sahel States (Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger) have escalated following the downing of a Malian drone by Algerian forces. The incident has led to diplomatic fallout, including ambassador recalls and closed airspaces, amid a backdrop of deteriorating relations and shifting alliances in the region.
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During the African Lion 2025 military exercise, Gen. Michael Langley emphasized the need for African nations to conduct independent operations. This marks a shift from the U.S.'s previous 'whole-of-government' approach, as the military reduces its footprint amid rising extremist threats in the region.
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Severe flooding in Mokwa, Niger State, has resulted in over 200 confirmed deaths and thousands displaced following torrential rains on June 1, 2025. Many victims were Almajiri students living in informal schools. Rescue operations have been called off, and the community is mourning the loss of loved ones while facing ongoing challenges in accessing education and aid.
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As Eid al-Adha approaches, Muslim communities in Indonesia and Nigeria face economic challenges affecting traditional animal sacrifices. In Indonesia, cattle sales have dropped significantly, while in Nigeria, soaring ram prices hinder participation in the festival. The situation reflects broader economic hardships exacerbated by recent crises.
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As of June 20, 2025, Russia's military presence in Mali is shifting from the Wagner Group to the Africa Corps. This transition occurs amid escalating jihadist violence and a retreat of Western powers, particularly France. The Africa Corps is expected to focus more on training Malian forces rather than direct combat, raising concerns about the ongoing security situation.