The first convoy of Algerian military personnel has arrived in Niger as the country battles growing insecurity caused by jihadist groups operating across the West African Sahel region.
The deployment marks Algeria’s first overseas military operation since it sent troops to support Egypt during the 1973 Arab-Israeli war, according to a Reuters report published on Friday.
Ten people who spoke to Reuters confirmed that the Algerian military convoy had reached Arlit, a uranium-mining town in northwestern Niger.
However, Algeria has not disclosed the number of soldiers involved or provided a timeline for the deployment.
Algeria had earlier announced plans to send troops to Niger, explaining that the decision was aimed at protecting its energy and economic interests in the neighbouring country.
Algeria shares a border with Niger and has traditionally considered security and stability in the Sahel-Sahara region a major regional priority.
Energy cooperation is a significant part of Algeria’s interests in Niger, where its state-owned oil and gas company, Sonatrach, has investments.
One of the major projects involving both countries and Nigeria is the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, which is designed to transport African natural gas to Europe and other international markets.
Niger, which possesses significant uranium, oil and gold deposits, has been under military rule since July 2023, when a coup ousted former President Mohamed Bazoum.
Algeria initially opposed the takeover but has since strengthened its engagement with the military-led government in Niamey.
The latest deployment also points to improving relations between both countries following diplomatic tensions last year.
Niger recalled its ambassador from Algeria after Mali accused the Algerian military of shooting down one of its drones near their shared border.
