Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, has appointed Brigadier General Mamane Sani Kiaou as the new Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, following an attempted mutiny that was reportedly crushed last month.

The appointment was announced on state television on Friday, with a decree dated September 11, 2026, confirming Kiaou’s elevation to the top military position.

Kiaou replaces General Moussa Salaou Barmou, although the authorities did not disclose the reason for his removal.

The military reshuffle comes weeks after soldiers involved in an attempted uprising attacked strategic locations in the capital, Niamey, before taking refuge at a military base near the airport. Forces loyal to Tiani, supported by Russian mercenaries, eventually contained the revolt.

Kiaou is a veteran military commander who previously served as army chief of staff. He has been involved in military operations against jihadist groups in the Tillaberi region in western Niger and Diffa in the southeast.

State media said he recently visited several military bases across the country as part of efforts to improve unity and coordination among troops.

Tiani also appointed General Abdourahmane Abou Zataka to take over from Kiaou as army chief of staff.

Kiaou played a role in negotiations that led to the departure of French and United States troops from Niger after Tiani seized power in a July 2023 coup.

Since taking power, Tiani has strengthened Niger’s ties with Russia while reducing its military and diplomatic cooperation with Western countries.

The junta has previously accused France of involvement in the attempted uprising, although no independent evidence supporting the allegation was provided.

Tiani has remained in power since the 2023 coup that removed President Mohamed Bazoum, who remains under detention.