Niger’s military rulers have announced a major shake-up at the top of the armed forces days after a failed mutiny in Niamey raised questions about unity within the junta’s security establishment.
General Abdourahamane Tiani has appointed Brigadier General Mamane Sani Kiaou as the new chief of staff of Niger’s armed forces, replacing General Moussa Salaou Barmou. The appointment was contained in a decree signed by Tiani on September 11 and announced on state television.
The move follows a violent confrontation in the capital last month when disgruntled soldiers attacked several strategic locations, including a military installation at the airport. The attempted uprising was eventually contained by forces loyal to the government, with Russian Africa Corps personnel reportedly providing crucial assistance.
Authorities have not disclosed why Barmou was removed from his position. The decision, however, comes at a critical point for Niger’s military leadership, which is facing pressure from both an ongoing jihadist insurgency and signs of discontent among sections of the armed forces.
Kiaou is no stranger to Niger’s military command structure. He previously served as army chief of staff and has extensive experience fighting armed groups across the country. Associates have described him as a “seasoned field commander,” with experience in operations in Tillaberi in western Niger and Diffa in the southeast.
His return to senior command also comes after efforts to strengthen discipline and unity across the military. State media reported that Kiaou recently toured several important military garrisons as part of an effort aimed at “restoring cohesion among the troops.”
Tiani has also appointed General Abdourahmane Abou Zataka to take over from Kiaou as army chief of staff. The appointments effectively give the junta a new command arrangement as it works to prevent further internal challenges.
The military government has faced a difficult security environment since taking power in 2023. Armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State have continued attacks, while the country has undergone a major realignment of its foreign military partnerships.
Niger expelled French and US forces after the coup and has increasingly turned to Russia for security assistance. Kiaou was involved in negotiations that contributed to the withdrawal of Western troops from Niger.
The junta has also accused France of backing or encouraging the recent mutiny, although the government has not publicly presented detailed evidence for the allegation.
With the latest reshuffle, Tiani appears focused on strengthening the military chain of command and rebuilding cohesion after the attempted uprising, while confronting the security threats that continue to challenge Niger.
