First Algerian military convoy arrives in Niger in rare cross-border deployment

An Algerian military convoy has arrived in Arlit, a city in northwestern Niger, marking Algeria’s first deployment of troops outside its borders in decades. The move aims to safeguard Algeria’s economic interests and energy projects, according to Reuters.

Reuters cited 10 sources confirming the convoy’s arrival in Arlit, a city known for its uranium mining. Algeria stated that the decision to deploy troops was to protect its economic and energy sector interests, but did not disclose the size of the force or the timeline of its arrival.

The Algerian move comes as Niger faces attacks from armed groups linked to Al-Qaeda and Daesh, similar to other countries in the West African Sahel. Algeria considers stability in the Sahel and Sahara region a regional security priority, especially given the shared border between the two nations.

Algeria’s interests in Niger extend beyond security, with the energy sector being a key area of cooperation, particularly through investments by the state-owned company Sonatrach.

One of the most significant joint projects is the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, involving Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria, which aims to transport African gas to Europe and other international markets.

Politically, Niger has been under military rule since a July 2023 coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, a move initially opposed by Algeria.

The arrival of the Algerian convoy signals improving relations between Algiers and Niamey since last year, following previous tensions, according to the Reuters report.