An Algerian military convoy reached the uranium mining town of Arlit in northwestern Niger on Tuesday. Ten sources confirmed the arrival to reporters. This marks Algeria’s first foreign troop deployment since it sent forces to support Egypt during the 1973 Arab-Israeli war.
Niger and other nations across West Africa’s Sahel region face ongoing threats from insurgents linked to Al-Qaeda and Daesh. Algeria shares a long border with Niger and treats stability in the Sahel-Sahara region as a primary regional security concern.
Energy investments form a central focus for Algiers in Niger. Algerian state-owned oil and gas company Sonatrach holds substantial assets in the country, including the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline.
Developed alongside Niger and Nigeria, the initiative seeks to supply African natural gas to European and global markets.
Algerian officials stated that the troop deployment aims to defend the nation’s energy and economic interests. Authorities did not release details regarding the size of the deployed force or the timeline for their arrival.
Military officers have governed Niger since a coup in July 2023 removed President Mohamed Bazoum. Algeria initially opposed the military takeover of the resource-rich nation, which possesses significant reserves of uranium, oil and gold.
The recent military deployment shows improving diplomatic ties between Algiers and Niamey. Relations had previously suffered following an incident last year when Mali accused Algeria of shooting down a drone near their shared border, prompting Niger to temporarily recall its ambassador from Algiers.
