Niger: Imminent creation of joint Armed Force to combat terrorism in the Sahel
During their first meeting in Niamey on March 6, 2024, the Chiefs of Staff of the Sahel States Alliance (AES) announced the imminent creation of a joint military force to combat terrorism. This decision was communicated by Brigadier General Moussa Salaou Barmou, Chief of Staff of the Niger Armed Forces, at the close of the deliberations.
He emphasized that the discussions had led to the establishment of an operational concept meeting the defense and security objectives set by the authorities of the Alliance’s member states. General Barmou praised the quality of the exchanges and the interest shown in security and defense throughout the Alliance’s region.
Military leaders took advantage of this meeting to assess the security situation in the region, noting that it remains concerning but shows signs of improvement due to renewed dynamics in joint operations among the three member countries. They are convinced that by uniting their efforts, they can create a secure environment, thus meeting the peace and stability aspirations of their populations.
General Barmou confirmed the forthcoming establishment of a joint military force of the Sahel States Alliance to address the region’s security challenges. He recalled that this alliance, formed in September 2023, comprises Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
