-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Niger has officially ended its cooperation with Russia and Turkey in the field of intelligence technology, citing dissatisfaction with the performance of surveillance systems and foreign personnel.
According to Military Africa on May 7, the decision was initiated by the General Directorate of Documentation and External Security, which raised concerns about the low effectiveness of Russian and Turkish-provided intelligence equipment, particularly in intercepting telecommunications.
The move comes amid broader internal challenges faced by the ruling military government in Niamey and reflects growing concerns over the country’s national security capabilities.
Following the termination of cooperation, Niger turned to a Moroccan company specializing in digital surveillance to fill the resulting gap.
However, this initiative also collapsed shortly after launch, when it was discovered that the Moroccan contractor had ties to a French private firm.
Given Niger’s recent political rift with France and its opposition to Western involvement, the ruling junta ordered the immediate dismantling of the system.
As a result, Niger is currently left without a functioning intelligence infrastructure. To compensate, the Presidential Guard has assumed responsibility for internal monitoring.
The unit has launched discreet night patrols in strategic areas of the capital, Niamey. Operatives reportedly operate in civilian clothing, traveling on foot or motorcycles to observe critical sites.
Earlier, on August 6, 2024, Niger officially broke diplomatic relations with Ukraine, accusing Kyiv of actions that allegedly violated the UN Charter. Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the claims as baseless and politically motivated, calling the move a gesture of solidarity with Russia.
