At least 41 soldiers have been confirmed dead following a brutal attack by suspected Islamic State militants on a military post in Eknewan, located in the Tillia commune of Niger’s Tahoua Region. The deadly assault occurred in the early hours of Saturday, May 25, and is being described as one of the worst attacks on Nigerien forces in recent months.
According to military sources, the gunmen — believed to be fighters from the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) — stormed the base just before dawn. The fighting lasted nearly three hours, during which the terrorists briefly took control of the base, destroyed nine military vehicles by fire, and escaped with several others, along with large stockpiles of weapons and ammunition.
Several soldiers are still missing as of Sunday, and the actual death toll could rise. Security operations have been launched to search for the missing personnel and recover the stolen equipment.
This is not the first time the Eknewan base has come under attack. In September 2024, a similar assault on the same location left 38 soldiers dead. That incident, like the latest one, was blamed on extremist groups operating in the border regions of Niger.
The Tahoua Region, especially the Tillia commune, has remained one of the most unstable parts of Niger. Armed groups linked to both the Islamic State and al-Qaeda continue to carry out deadly attacks against military and civilian targets in the area. The region borders Mali, where militant groups have also increased their activities in recent years.
Saturday’s attack highlights the worsening security situation in Niger’s western regions despite efforts by the military to contain the threat. The government of Niger, led by the military junta that took power in 2023, has faced growing challenges in securing the country’s vast desert borders, which are frequently used by armed groups to move weapons and fighters.
In response to the attack, security forces have intensified surveillance and launched pursuit operations in the region. A military spokesperson confirmed that reinforcements have been sent to the area to secure remaining outposts and prevent further incursions.
As the country continues to battle terrorism, analysts say better intelligence, regional cooperation, and improved equipment are urgently needed to prevent future tragedies.
The attack also raises concerns for neighboring countries, including Nigeria, which shares porous borders with Niger and faces similar security threats from jihadist groups in the Lake Chad and Sahel regions.
With yet another devastating blow to its forces, Niger’s military is under pressure to review its counter-terrorism strategies and provide better protection for its troops on the frontlines.
