Niger Military Shake-Up: Tiani Replaces Armed Forces Chief After Failed Mutiny

Niger’s military ruler, General Abdourahamane Tiani, has carried out a major leadership change within the country’s armed forces, appointing Brigadier General Mamane Sani Kiaou as the new Chief of Staff following last month’s failed military mutiny.

Niger’s state television announced the appointment on Friday, stating that the decree was signed by General Tiani on September 11, 2026.

Kiaou replaces General Moussa Salaou Barmou, whose removal comes weeks after an attempted uprising by disgruntled soldiers reportedly challenged the authority of the military government.

The authorities did not provide an official explanation for Barmou’s dismissal.

The failed mutiny reportedly involved attacks on several sensitive sites in Niamey, the capital, before the soldiers withdrew and took refuge at a key military facility near the airport.

The confrontation resulted in intense fighting in parts of the city before forces loyal to the junta regained control.

Supporters of the military government reportedly received assistance from Russian mercenaries in suppressing the attempted uprising.

The latest appointment places Kiaou, an experienced military commander, at the centre of Niger’s armed forces at a particularly sensitive period.

He has previously served as Army Chief of Staff and has been involved in military operations against jihadist groups operating in the western Tillaberi region and southeastern Diffa area.

Nigerien state media described Kiaou as a seasoned field commander and reported that he recently toured several major military garrisons across the country as part of efforts to restore cohesion and strengthen unity among troops.

Kiaou has also been involved in Niger’s changing international security partnerships.

Following the July 2023 coup, he participated in negotiations that contributed to the withdrawal of French and United States forces from the country.

General Tiani has ruled Niger since the military seized power in July 2023, overthrowing democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum. Bazoum has remained detained since the coup.

As part of the latest military reshuffle, Tiani also appointed General Abdourahmane Abou Zataka to succeed Kiaou as Army Chief of Staff.

The leadership changes come as the junta continues to face security challenges from armed jihadist groups while also dealing with internal tensions within the military.

Since taking power, Tiani’s administration has moved Niger closer to Russia while reducing its reliance on Western partners, particularly France, which previously maintained a significant military presence in the country.

Nigerien state television had earlier accused France of supporting or being behind last month’s attempted uprising, an allegation that has not been independently established.

The appointment of Kiaou as Chief of Staff therefore represents a significant military leadership change as the junta seeks to consolidate control, strengthen unity within the armed forces and address continuing security threats across the country.

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