Niger’s military rulers have approved a general mobilization to strengthen the fight against armed groups across the country. The decision was made after a cabinet meeting and allows the government to use people and goods for security needs. This marks a major step by the military leaders who took power in a coup in July 2023, removing the elected president, Mohamed Bazoum. Niger has faced deadly violence for more than ten years, linked to groups connected to al-Qaeda and ISIL. Nearly 2,000 people have been killed, according to conflict data groups. In the southeast, Boko Haram and its splinter group ISWAP have carried out repeated attacks, putting more pressure on security forces. The mobilization comes years after Niger increased its army size and raised the retirement age for senior officers. Since the coup, citizens have been urged to give voluntary financial support. Niger has also cut ties with French and US troops and strengthened cooperation with Mali and Burkina Faso through a joint regional force.

Pray for wise counsel for the authorities to eradicate terrorism and to improve the security system in Niger. Pray for peace and justice to prevail in the country (The Holy Bible, Psalm 103:6).

Pray for divine protection and peace upon all the innocent civilians in Niger from all evil-doers. Pray for the LORD’S army of angels to intervene in the country’s fight against terrorism (The Holy Bible, Psalm 91:11).

News Source: Aljazeera

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