Niger junta announces plans for local defense groups.
The government of Niger is making plans to form local defense groups. These groups will help protect villages from terrorists. The military wants to train and organize these volunteers.
Niger is facing a growing threat from Islamist militants. The Islamic State group is advancing in the region. The government believes local militias can assist the armed forces. These self-defense organizations will be made up of armed civilians. The junta is responding to the security situation in the Sahel.
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Highlights
Niger Creates Local Defense Groups
The Niger military government wants to organize local defense groups.
Villages Form Militias
Villages have already formed militias to fight terrorists.
Fighting Islamist Militants
The groups are fighting Islamist militants in the Sahel.
Response to Islamic State
The junta is responding to the Islamic State's advance.
Training of Volunteers
The Nigerien army wants to train the existing groups.