Map of Niger highlighting Niamey and Massalata, illustrating the country’s location in West Africa for geographic context.
Nigeria and Niger have signed a new security cooperation agreement despite tensions following last year’s coup in Niger. The memorandum of understanding was signed by defense chiefs from both countries in Niamey, Niger’s capital. Announced by the Nigerian army, the accord aims to enhance regional stability and security. Relations between Nigeria and Niger soured after the July 2023 coup ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Following that incident, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) threatened military intervention. This exacerbated regional instability and led to divisions within the bloc, prompting some countries to withdraw their membership. Furthermore, Niger’s participation in the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) against Boko Haram waned. However, with the new agreement, Niger has indicated its intent to re-engage with the MNJTF and collaborate more closely with Nigeria to address security challenges in the region.
SOURCE: AFRICA NEWS