REFLEXIVE PEACE PRACTICE (RPP) PROJECT

Niger's security situation deteriorated further during the week of 14–18 September 2026. On 15 September, gunmen killed at least 22 people in an attack on a baptism ceremony in Takoubatt, Tillabéri Region, closely echoing a nearly identical attack in the same region one year earlier. The attack came just days after the junta formalised its post-mutiny military command reshuffle, appointing a new Chief of Defence Staff and Army Chief of Staff, underscoring that institutional consolidation in Niamey has not yet translated into improved civilian protection in the western conflict zone.