Niger’s military authorities have reshuffled the country’s top military leadership, appointing Gen. Mahaman Sani Kiaou as the new chief of staff of the military following last month’s failed mutiny.
Kiaou, who previously served as chief of staff of the army, replaces Gen. Moussa Salaou Barmou. His appointment was announced through decrees read on state television on Friday, September 11, 2026.
The leadership changes come less than two weeks after an attempted uprising in Niamey on August 28 and 29, when soldiers reportedly took positions at Base 101 near the international airport and opened fire at several strategic locations in the capital.
The mutiny was eventually contained by forces loyal to the military government, with fighting reportedly involving members of the Special Reconnaissance Battalion and loyalist troops.
Three presidential guards were reportedly killed during the confrontation, while authorities later announced the recovery of a significant cache of weapons and the arrest of several suspects.
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As part of the latest restructuring, Gen. Abdourahmane Abou Zataka has been appointed chief of staff of the army.
Further changes were also announced within Niger’s air and ground forces as the junta moves to strengthen its command structure and restore cohesion within the military.
The reshuffle comes at a sensitive time for the government of Gen. Abdourahamane Tiani, whose administration has faced renewed scrutiny over the stability of its internal security apparatus following the failed mutiny.
Although the attempted uprising disrupted parts of the capital, the junta retained control of Niamey and moved to tighten its grip over the military hierarchy.
