Niger’s military government has reshuffled its top military leadership, appointing Brigadier General Mamane Sani Kiaou as the new Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, weeks after a failed army mutiny rocked the capital, Niamey.
The appointment was announced on Friday by Niger’s state television, citing a decree signed by junta leader General Abdourahamane Tiani on September 11, 2026.
Kiaou replaces General Moussa Salaou Barmou, whose removal came without an official explanation.
The shake-up follows an attempted uprising by disgruntled soldiers last month, when troops reportedly attacked several strategic locations in Niamey before retreating to a military base at the airport.
The mutiny was eventually crushed by forces loyal to the junta, with assistance from Russian mercenaries, after fierce clashes in parts of the capital.
In another major change, Tiani appointed General Abdourahmane Abou Zataka to take over from Kiaou as Army Chief of Staff.
Kiaou is regarded as an experienced field commander with extensive operational experience against jihadist groups. He has been involved in military operations in Niger’s western Tillaberi region and the southeastern Diffa area.
State media said Kiaou recently toured major military garrisons across the country as part of efforts to “restore cohesion among the troops” — a move that could take on added significance following the recent mutiny.
The general also played a key role in negotiations that paved the way for the withdrawal of French and United States troops from Niger after the July 2023 coup.
Since seizing power in July 2023, Tiani has steadily moved Niger away from its traditional Western allies and closer to Russia.
The junta has repeatedly accused France of meddling in Niger’s internal affairs and state television previously alleged that Paris was involved in the failed uprising, claims France has rejected.
Tiani came to power after overthrowing democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum, who has remained in detention since the coup.
The latest military reshuffle underscores the junta’s continuing efforts to tighten control over the armed forces and prevent further internal dissent.