News
Niger Launches AES Biometric Passport as Sahel Bloc Deepens Regional Integration
Niger Launches AES Biometric Passport as Sahel Bloc Deepens Regional Integration
By Zagazola Makama
The Republic of Niger has officially launched the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) biometric passport, marking another significant step in the confederation’s drive toward deeper regional integration following its withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
President Abdourahamane Tiani became the first recipient of the new travel document during an enrollment ceremony held at the Presidency in Niamey, where officials also unveiled the passport’s official brochure.
The biometric passport was developed in accordance with harmonized technical specifications agreed upon by experts from Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali during a meeting in Bamako in October 2024. The standards were subsequently endorsed by ministers responsible for security in the three member states.
According to the Nigerien government, the new passport is designed to enhance document security, facilitate the free movement of citizens within the Alliance of Sahel States, and align travel and identification systems across the confederation. The initiative forms part of a broader modernization programme aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and reducing dependence on ECOWAS-era travel documents.
The launch follows similar initiatives in Burkina Faso and comes months after Niger introduced the AES biometric national identity card, with President Tiani and Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine among the first citizens to be enrolled. The three-member confederation has continued to advance plans for closer cooperation in defence, trade, customs, and the free movement of people and goods as it builds common institutions under the Alliance of Sahel States.
Niger Launches AES Biometric Passport as Sahel Bloc Deepens Regional Integration
ECOWAS Inspection Team Assesses Readiness of Nigerian Standby Force in Ondo
By: Zagazola Makama
An inspection team from the ECOWAS Force Headquarters and Army Headquarters has assessed the operational readiness of Nigeria’s ECOWAS standby force at Naquora Barracks in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the team, led by Brig.-Gen. Sheikh Sulaiman Massaquoi, visited the barracks on Nov. 7, 2026, to evaluate the troops’ preparedness for possible deployment.
The team received briefings on troop readiness, training and administrative matters, and witnessed demonstrations on roadblock operations and crowd dispersal.
Massaquoi commended the troops for their performance and urged them to sustain high standards of professionalism, discipline and physical fitness.
The inspection visit ended without any incident.
ECOWAS Inspection Team Assesses Readiness of Nigerian Standby Force in Ondo
Troops Foil Kidnap Attempt, Rescue Gunshot-Wounded Victim in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have foiled a suspected kidnapping attempt and rescued a gunshot-wounded victim along the Rafin Sanyi axis in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that troops of Sector 6 OPEP, deployed at Sopp, responded to a distress report at about 9:40 p.m. on Nov. 6, 2026, after suspected kidnappers blocked the road in the area.
The swift intervention of the troops reportedly forced the criminals to flee before they could carry out their operation.
The troops subsequently combed the area and rescued one occupant of a Sharon vehicle who had sustained a gunshot wound.
The victim was evacuated to the Nigerian Army Medical Outpost at Tigi, where he received first aid treatment.
Troops have continued to dominate the general area through fighting patrols to prevent the criminals from regrouping and forestall further attacks.
Troops Foil Kidnap Attempt, Rescue Gunshot-Wounded Victim in Plateau
Troops Raid Jos Hotel, Arrest Five Suspects Over Phone Snatching, Recover 26 Phones
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have raided a hotel along Baring Road in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, arresting five suspected criminals and recovering 26 mobile phones and other items.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that troops of Sector 1 OPEP, while on patrol, responded to a report of phone snatching at about 9:00 p.m. on Nov. 6, 2026.
Following the incident, the stolen phone was reportedly tracked to Prime House Hotel within the area, prompting the troops to conduct a raid on the facility.
The operation led to the arrest of five suspects identified as Tahir Suleiman, 25; Muhammed Ahmed, 25; Muhammed Labaran Haruna, 27; Yahya Yunusa, 20; and Aisha Mohammad, 22.
The suspects were reportedly found in possession of the tracked phone, while a further search led to the recovery of 26 mobile phones, 27 pouches, three MP devices, two earpods, an HP laptop, a knife and four power banks.
The vehicle belonging to the suspects was also towed to the headquarters of Sector 1 for a comprehensive search.
The suspects and recovered exhibits remain in custody for further investigation and necessary action.
Troops Raid Jos Hotel, Arrest Five Suspects Over Phone Snatching, Recover 26 Phones
ECOWAS Inspection Team Assesses Readiness of Nigerian Standby Force in Ondo
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