Algeria to deploy troops to Niger for first time since 1973

Algeria is preparing to send troops to Niger in its first overseas military deployment since it dispatched forces to Egypt during the 1973 Arab-Israeli war, the BBC reported.

The planned deployment follows a visit to Algiers by Niger’s defence minister. Niger is seeking support against armed groups, including those linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State.

Algeria has economic interests in Niger, including a proposed gas pipeline that would transport Nigerian gas through Niger to Algeria. The troops are expected to protect energy facilities in northern Niger, near the Libyan border.

The move comes as the two neighbours rebuild relations after a diplomatic rift in 2025, when Niger recalled its ambassador to Algiers.

Algeria’s upper house of parliament held an emergency session on Sunday to consider the deployment. According to “AFP”, 148 of the 174 senators voted in favour. The proposal was later approved by the lower house.

The timing of the deployment and the number of soldiers involved have not been announced.

The mission would be the first use of a 2020 constitutional provision permitting overseas military deployments, marking a significant shift in Algeria’s long-standing policy against sending forces abroad.

“We are not sending our soldiers to wage war in Niger, but for a mission to secure economic infrastructure,” Algerian senator Belkacem Boulghiti told reporters after the vote.

Algeria’s state-owned energy company, “Sonatrach”, has also signed an agreement with Niger’s petroleum ministry to explore for oil in the Kafra region. Two exploration wells are estimated to contain 168 million and 100 million barrels, respectively, “Reuters” reported.

Relations between Algeria and Niger have been strained in recent years. Algeria condemned the 2023 coup that ousted Niger’s elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, and brought Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani to power.

Tensions increased again in 2025 after Algeria shot down a Malian drone near its border. Niger recalled its ambassador to Algiers in solidarity with Mali, a close ally that is also under military rule.

Relations have since improved. Tchiani visited Algeria in February 2026, and in late August, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune sent fighter jets to Niger to help suppress a coup attempt and donated four military helicopters.