Niger: Towards an army of 100.000 soldiers and a new strategic command

The Nigerien government has recently unveiled ambitious plans to enhance national security and protect its strategic resources. By 2030, the country aims to increase its army to 100.000 soldiers to address growing security needs. In response to escalating security threats, Niger has announced a significant increase in its army’s numbers.

The goal is to have a force of 100.000 soldiers by 2030, an essential measure to improve the country’s defense capabilities. This military expansion will better equip the nation to handle various security challenges and ensure regional stability.

In addition to increasing troop numbers, Niger has decided to establish a new « Command of Forces for Protection and Development ». This command will be specifically dedicated to safeguarding the country’s strategic sites against terrorist attacks. These sites include oil wells, uranium mines, and the nearly 2.000 km pipeline that transports crude oil to Sèmè-Kpodji in Benin. This pipeline is vital to Niger’s economy, as are the commercial corridors that facilitate international trade.

The Command of Forces for Protection and Development will be tasked with securing critical infrastructure and providing effective protection against terrorist threats. By focusing on oil wells, uranium mines, and commercial corridors, this command will play a crucial role in safeguarding Niger’s economic resources.

Protecting strategic resources is essential for Niger’s economic development. By securing natural resource extraction sites and transportation routes, the government aims to create a stable and secure environment conducive to investment and economic growth. This initiative is also expected to strengthen the confidence of international partners and attract new investors.

Read also: Niger/Security and Development: A military protection and development force in the making

Sadia Nyaoré