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Tuareg Rebels and JNIM: A New Strategic Alliance in Mali?
Tuareg Rebels and JNIM: A New Strategic Alliance in Mali?
By: Zagazola Makama
Mali stands at a critical turning point as fresh negotiations between the Tuareg rebels of northern Mali and the al-Qaeda-affiliated Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) gain momentum. According to sources close to both groups, these talks represent a significant shift in strategy that could fundamentally reshape the security and political landscape of the Sahel.
For the Tuareg rebels, these negotiations are a response to Mali’s recent national consultations, which called for dialogue with jihadist groups but excluded northern armed factions from the process. Additionally, Tuareg leaders argue that grassroots communities who have been caught in the crossfire of the ongoing conflict are pushing for a settlement to avoid further bloodshed.
On the other hand, the rebels say they are keen to avoid the mistakes of 2012, when the Tuareg-led National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) initially seized control of northern Mali, only to be overpowered by jihadist forces, leading to a rapid escalation of violence and the subsequent 2013 French military intervention.
A Shift in JNIM’s Strategy
A key factor encouraging the Tuareg rebels to engage in talks is the shifting approach of JNIM itself. Over the years, the group has evolved in its tactics, messaging, and governance strategy. Unlike the extremist brutality displayed in 2012, JNIM has refined its policies, making it a more pragmatic and structured insurgency.
According to sources close to the Tuareg rebels, JNIM’s leadership began reassessing its position following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. The Taliban’s ability to consolidate power while maintaining Afghanistan’s territorial integrity served as a model. Additionally, recent jihadist dynamics in Syria further influenced JNIM’s approach, leading to a reconsideration of its long-term objectives in Mali.
Statements from key JNIM figures, including Amadou Koufa, leader of Katiba Macina, and Jafar Dicko, head of JNIM operations in Burkina Faso, indicate a growing willingness to compromise. Their recent declarations have emphasized political and governance issues rather than outright military conquest.
Most notably, a recent JNIM communiqué framed the military juntas in the region as obstacles to regional stability. The statement called for international intervention against these governments, signaling that JNIM sees an opportunity to reposition itself as a legitimate actor rather than a purely insurgent force.
This convergence of interests between Tuareg rebels and JNIM has laid the groundwork for negotiations, with both sides willing to soften their positions for mutual benefit.
Key Points of Negotiation
JNIM sources have confirmed that discussions are ongoing, with a primary focus on governance and the role of Sharia law. Historically, one of the main points of contention between the two factions has been JNIM’s strict interpretation of Islamic law, which led to the breakdown of their alliance in 2012.
However, the current negotiations propose a new governance model in which Sharia law would be implemented at the local level, but administered by community-based religious authorities rather than JNIM operatives. This compromise, according to sources, has been accepted by JNIM’s leadership.
Another major shift is JNIM’s perspective on Mali’s territorial integrity. Rather than supporting the Tuareg rebels’ long-standing push for an independent Azawad, JNIM has reportedly argued that regional and international actors would be more likely to tolerate an Islamic governance structure within a unified Mali rather than outright secession.
JNIM’s ability to convince Tuareg leaders to focus on governing northern Mali rather than seeking full independence represents a major ideological shift. The jihadist group is prepared to support Tuareg fighters in taking control of key territories, but with the understanding that these areas would be governed under an Islamic framework rather than an independent Tuareg state.
A New Governance Model for Northern Mali?
Sources close to JNIM say that if the alliance moves forward, the group is ready to coordinate and administer territories alongside Tuareg rebels. However, lessons from the 2012 conflict have prompted a change in strategy.
Rather than raising the black flag of al-Qaeda over captured cities a move that led to international military intervention in the past—JNIM plans to allow Tuareg governance structures to manage administrative affairs. This means that while JNIM would retain influence, it would avoid direct control over urban areas, instead allowing local Tuareg leadership to take the forefront.
Such a strategy could serve multiple purposes: Reducing the risk of foreign military intervention by keeping governance in the hands of local Tuareg leaders, JNIM would present a less overt threat to international powers. Legitimizing its role in Mali’s political landscape rather than being seen purely as an extremist group, JNIM could position itself as a political and security partner in the region. Avoiding the mistakes of 2012 The rapid downfall of the Tuareg rebellion in 2012 was largely due to its inability to maintain control. By working together with the rebels rather than sidelining them, JNIM aims to ensure a more sustainable presence.
The Question of Al-Qaeda Affiliation
One of the most sensitive aspects of the negotiations revolves around JNIM’s relationship with al-Qaeda’s central command. According to sources, there is ongoing internal debate about whether the group should formally distance itself from al-Qaeda.
For JNIM leaders, the question is not just ideological but also strategic. Some within the group believe that dissociating from al-Qaeda could open doors to direct negotiations with Western governments. Others argue that such a move would require religious justification, possibly linked to a major political development such as the formal independence of Azawad or the collapse of the Malian government in Bamako.
Interestingly, sources indicate that JNIM is more willing to negotiate its future with Western powers directly rather than through Tuareg intermediaries. The concern within JNIM is that Tuareg leaders could use any potential al-Qaeda split as leverage in their own diplomatic engagements with France and other international actors.
Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Mali?
If these negotiations result in a formal agreement, the implications for Mali and the wider Sahel could be profound. A coordinated Tuareg-JNIM alliance would not only reshape local power dynamics but could also alter the trajectory of jihadist movements across West Africa.
The shift in JNIM’s strategy from ideological extremism to pragmatic governance signals a broader recalibration of jihadist operations in the region. Whether this shift leads to long-term stability or another round of conflict remains to be seen.
What is clear, however, is that Mali’s security landscape is on the brink of another transformation one that could redefine the balance of power in the Sahel for years to come.
Zagazola Makama is a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad Region
Tuareg Rebels and JNIM: A New Strategic Alliance in Mali?
Cuba, Colombia React as US Confirms Military Strikes on Venezuela
By: Michael Mike
Cuba and Colombia have issued statements following reports of US military strikes on Venezuela, after multiple explosions were recorded in the capital, Caracas, early Saturday.
Residents reported loud blasts across several parts of the city, alongside sightings of warplanes, helicopters and what appeared to be unmanned aerial vehicles operating overhead. Venezuela’s government described the incident as a “serious military aggression,” alleging that US forces targeted both civilian and military sites in Caracas and in the surrounding states of Miranda, Aragua and La Guaira.
US President Donald Trump later confirmed that American forces carried out the operation, announcing that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife had been captured and flown out of the country.
In a strongly worded response, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the action, calling on the international community to respond urgently. He described the strike as a criminal act that violated regional peace, accusing Washington of state terrorism against Venezuela and Latin America as a whole.
“Our zone of peace is under brutal assault,” Díaz-Canel said, expressing solidarity with the Venezuelan people.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro took a more measured approach, stating that his government was closely monitoring developments. He expressed concern over the reported explosions and increased aerial activity, warning against further escalation.
“The Colombian government rejects any unilateral military action that could worsen the crisis or endanger civilians,” Petro said.
Former Bolivian President Evo Morales also condemned the strikes, describing them as an imperialist attack that violated Venezuela’s sovereignty. He pledged solidarity with the Venezuelan people, insisting the country was not facing the situation alone.
The developments unfold against the backdrop of longstanding tensions between Washington and Caracas. The Trump administration has repeatedly accused Venezuela’s leadership of involvement in large-scale drug trafficking, claims the Maduro government has dismissed as justification for foreign intervention and regime change.
Cuba, Colombia React as US Confirms Military Strikes on Venezuela
Seven killed in Qua’an-Pan as attackers target fellow Christian villagers in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
At least seven persons were killed late Friday night in Bong village, Doemak District, Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State, in an attack reportedly carried out against fellow Christians residents by criminals operating within the community.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the community late at night while residents were asleep in an attempt to rustled their livestock.
A native of the area, Mr Lawrence Dogari, said that many villagers were injured in the attack, while some persons were still missing.
“For now, I can confirm that over seven persons have been killed, while several others were injured. Some people are still unaccounted for,” Dogari said.
Confirming the incident, Mr Danaan Cletus Sylvanus, Director of Press and Publicity to the Executive Chairman of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Council, Mr Christopher Audu Manship, said the exact number of casualties was still being verified.
He said the council chairman had condemned the attack and was working closely with security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators were arrested and brought to justice.
“The chairman is deeply saddened by the attack on innocent persons and is collaborating with security operatives to ensure the culprits are brought to book,” Sylvanus said.
Meanwhile, sources at the Plateau State Police Command said the incident was linked to a cattle-rustling attempt carried out by criminal elements operating within the area.
According to a police sources, at about 4:20 a.m. on Jan. 2, unknown armed men invaded Bong/Kook village in Qua’an-Pan LGA and rustled some cows. It said that operatives of the police, military, NSCDC and vigilante groups were mobilised to the area following a distress call.
The sources said that two of the assailants were killed in a bid escape, but later abandoned the rustled cows and fled.
“The rustled cows have been recovered, while the corpses of the deceased were deposited at the Cottage Hospital morgue in Kwalla for autopsy,” the police sources said, adding that additional security deployment had been made to the area.
Notably, preliminary accounts from the community and security sources indicate that the attack was not carried out by Fulani bandits, nor did the rustled livestock belong to Fulani pastoralists, pointing to the indications that the attackers were members of the local community.
Seven killed in Qua’an-Pan as attackers target fellow Christian villagers in Plateau
AT KASHIM IBRAHIM UNIVERSITY CONVOCATION CEREMONY IN MAIDUGURI
No Investment In Education Is A Gamble, Says VP Shettima
…As varsity installs Ooni of Ife as Chancellor
By: Our Reporter
Vice President Kashim Shettima has observed that there is no investment in education that is a gamble, saying the the education sector remains a deliberate commitment to securing a better future for Nigeria.
He described education as the most powerful tool for development, economic empowerment, and societal liberation.
Speaking on Saturday during the combined convocation ceremonies of Kashim Ibrahim University in Borno State, where a total of 2,294 students graduated across three academic sessions (2022/2023, 2023/2024 and 2024/2025), the Vice President said, “No investment in education is ever a gamble. It is a conscious plan for a better, more secure future.”
He urged the graduating students to see themselves as ambassadors of integrity, service, and excellence, noting that their conduct would define the reputation of the institution.
“Wherever life takes you, you carry the name and values of Kashim Ibrahim University. You must shun ethical shortcuts and moral compromise,” he stated.
The Vice President pointed out that Borno State and its government understand the consequences of neglecting education, having endured years of disruption caused by insurgency.
“Borno has paid a heavy price for the years education was disrupted. Yet, the people chose resilience over despair and learning over loss,” he said.
Describing the graduands as pioneers of the university, VP Shettima reminded them that history has placed a special responsibility on their shoulders.
“You are the first torchbearers of this institution. History will judge this university by what you become and how you conduct yourselves,” he added.
He commended the academic and administrative leadership of the institution, including its pioneer Vice-Chancellor, current management, lecturers, and staff, for laying what he termed “a solid foundation for learning in the heart of the North-East.”
The VP praised Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, describing him as “a leader whose vision turned an idea into an enduring institution.”
“This convocation is proof that true leadership measures power by the number of lives it enlightens,” he maintained, just as he applauded the university’s Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, for his commitment to the state, even at the height of the Boko Haram insurgency.
“Alhaji Indimi’s wealth has consistently been deployed for the good of society, especially when Borno needed it most,” he added.
Senator Shettima further acknowledged the role of traditional institutions, particularly the Shehu of Borno, even as acknowledged the solidarity shown by North-East governors during the darkest days of insurgency in the region.
In a symbolic gesture, the Vice President announced the donation of two electric vehicles to support the university’s shuttle services, saying “these vehicles are a modest contribution to ease mobility within the campus and support the learning environment”.
Earlier, Governor Zulum of Borno State announced automatic employment for 81 best graduating students of the university, and immediate postgraduate sponsorships within and outside Nigeria.
“Excellence must be rewarded. These young men and women have earned the confidence of the Borno State Government,” Zulum said.
He urged the graduates to step into the world as worthy ambassadors of the institution and agents of development.
The Chancellor of the university, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi II, pledged to work towards the accelerated growth of the institution.
“I accept this responsibility with humility and commitment. I will work tirelessly to advance the development of Kashim Ibrahim University,” the monarch said.
He thanked the Vice President for initiating the establishment of the university and Governor Zulum for finding him worthy of the appointment.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babagana Gutti, disclosed that the university’s ultra-modern teaching hospital, nearing completion, would be the largest and most equipped in the country.
“When completed, our teaching hospital will stand as a national reference point for medical training and service delivery,” he said.
Prof. Gutti added that the institution, established during Shettima’s tenure as Governor of Borno State, has been ranked the fastest-growing university in Nigeria, noting that over 50 physical projects were completed by the state government.
Highlights of the convocation included the installation of the Ooni of Ife as Chancellor of the university and the conferment of honorary Doctor of Letters degrees on him and international businessman, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi.
Best graduating students were also awarded MSc and PhD scholarships by Vice President Shettima.
AT KASHIM IBRAHIM UNIVERSITY CONVOCATION CEREMONY IN MAIDUGURI
Cuba, Colombia React as US Confirms Military Strikes on Venezuela
Seven killed in Qua’an-Pan as attackers target fellow Christian villagers in Plateau
AT KASHIM IBRAHIM UNIVERSITY CONVOCATION CEREMONY IN MAIDUGURI
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