Algerian troops have arrived in northern Niger in the country’s first overseas military deployment in more than five decades, marking a significant shift in its regional security policy amid growing threats from armed groups in the Sahel.
An Algerian military convoy reached Arlit, a uranium-mining town in northwestern Niger, according to 10 people who spoke to Reuters, confirming the arrival of the first contingent of forces.
The deployment marks Algeria’s first foreign military operation since it sent troops to support Egypt during the 1973 Arab-Israeli war.
Algerian authorities previously announced plans to deploy forces to Niger to safeguard the country’s energy and economic interests but have not disclosed the number of troops involved or provided a timetable for the operation.
The move comes as Niger and neighbouring countries across the Sahel struggle to contain insurgencies involving armed groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and Islamic State (IS).
Algeria, which shares a long border with Niger, has historically regarded security in the Sahel-Sahara region as a strategic priority, particularly amid concerns over cross-border militancy and instability.
Energy interests drive strategic cooperation
Beyond security concerns, Algeria has significant economic interests in Niger, particularly in the energy sector.
Algerian state-owned oil and gas company Sonatrach maintains investments in Niger, while both countries are involved in the proposed Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline alongside Nigeria.
The ambitious infrastructure project aims to transport Nigerian natural gas through Niger and Algeria for export to European and other international markets.
Protecting energy infrastructure and investment routes has become an important consideration for Algiers as insecurity continues to threaten economic activity across the region.
Niger, which possesses substantial uranium, oil and gold resources, has been governed by military authorities since a July 2023 coup that removed elected President Mohamed Bazoum.
Algeria initially opposed the military takeover, calling for a return to constitutional order.
Deployment signals improvement in relations
The arrival of Algerian forces also signals a significant improvement in relations between Algiers and Niamey following a period of diplomatic tensions.
Relations deteriorated in 2025 after Mali accused Algeria of shooting down one of its military drones near their shared border.
The dispute triggered a wider diplomatic confrontation involving Sahel countries, with Niger recalling its ambassador from Algeria.
The latest military cooperation suggests that both governments are moving to rebuild ties, driven by shared security concerns and economic interests.
Algeria’s decision to send troops beyond its borders also represents a notable development in its traditionally cautious approach to overseas military involvement.
However, the precise scope, duration and operational objectives of the deployment remain unclear, with Algerian authorities yet to release further details about the mission.
