Niamey – The Nigerien government has praised the decisive role played by Libyan authorities, represented by Commander-General Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar and his deputy, General Saddam Haftar, in securing the release of the governor of Bilma and four of his aides months after they were kidnapped by an armed group.
The five officials, led by the governor of Bilma, Commander Amadou Tourda, arrived in the capital Niamey on Sunday after their release from captivity, which began in June 2024 in the Dirkou region while they were returning from an official mission.
They were received at the Niamey airport by the Minister of State, Minister of Interior and Public Security, General Mohamed Toumba, who conveyed the Nigerien government’s congratulations to the freed individuals on their safety and steadfastness.
Special Thanks to the Libyan Leadership
In his speech during the official reception, General Toumba extended special thanks and deep gratitude from Niger to the Libyan authorities.
Toumba stressed that the “sincere and fruitful cooperation” from Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar and General Saddam Haftar “contributed decisively” to the release of the five citizens and ensured their safe return to their country.
The Nigerien Interior Minister considered this successful operation “tangible proof of the strong cooperation” between Niger and Libya, which are linked by “bonds of history and geography.”
He emphasized that this achievement reflects the effectiveness of security coordination between Benghazi and Niamey in facing common challenges, strengthens the regional partnership to combat cross-border armed networks, and represents a diplomatic and security success for both countries.