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Niger and the eastern Libyan authorities based in Benghazi continue to strengthen their ties, which Moscow strongly encourages. Niger’s Minister of Interior and Public Security, Mohamed Boubacar Toumba, recently paid a three-day working visit to Benghazi, the seat of military power and the internationally unrecognized eastern Libyan government.
During this visit, the two interior ministers of Niger, Mohamed Boubacar Toumba and Issam Abu Ziriba of eastern Libya, revived an old bilateral security agreement. They also discussed ways to strengthen border control by establishing mixed patrols. The exchange of information and security intelligence was also at the heart of the discussions, demonstrating a common desire to combat cross-border threats.
This rapprochement takes place against the backdrop of the recent repeal of a law targeting migrant traffickers by Niger, which has been under military rule since 2023, raising concerns in Libya and Tunisia about a possible influx of sub-Saharan migrants. In addition, a memorandum of understanding was signed to create a free trade zone near the common border, illustrating the economic importance of this cooperation.
The importance of this rapprochement goes beyond simple bilateral issues. For Russia, this partnership with two African allies is of strategic importance, as it seeks to counter Western powers in the region. Moscow’s increasing involvement in this strategic region coincides with the military expansion of the Libyan National Army (LNA) in southern Libya, bordering Chad and Niger.
The prospects for this alliance are multiple. On the security side, greater coordination could improve border management and reduce illegal activity in this volatile region. Economically, the planned free trade zone could stimulate trade between the two countries while providing Russia with additional leverage to build its influence in Africa.
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