In Niger, there is a surge in jihadist attacks, especially in the border regions with Benin and Nigeria. Jihadist groups such as Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin and Islamic State Sahel Province are becoming more dominant and are carrying out more deadly attacks. These groups are becoming more organized and are openly declaring responsibility for their attacks, including attacks in the regions around the capital, Niamey. Ineffective border controls and a decline in regional cooperation, due to the withdrawal of some Sahel countries, including Niger, from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), have helped these groups move freely. In Niger, the large forest areas and reserves provide these groups with hideouts. In the rural areas, such as the Dosso region, a lack of state presence and security allows these groups to recruit more members. For these groups, rural areas are attractive because they rely on smuggling routes along the Niger River. These conditions have helped the jihadist groups to establish themselves, making the southwestern region of Niger insecure.

Father GOD, we pray for Your divine intervention in Niger against growing violence and extremism. We pray for Your protection for all the people of Niger from the forces that seek to harm them (The Holy Bible, Psalm 27:1).

LORD, grant the government of Niger and other nations in the Sahel region the oneness and discernment to tackle the security challenges. Let there be unity among them to protect the people and bring peace to the region (The Holy Bible, Psalm 133:1).

News Source: ACLED Data

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