Yacine Diallo, ally of Niger junta, linked to mining security contracts, faces international sanctions
By: Zagazola Makama
International attention has turned to Nigerien businessman, Yacine Diallo, after his growing influence in the country’s private security sector coincided with international sanctions and allegations of support for the ruling junta.
Diallo, popularly known as the “Fierce style Boubé of Toumba,” owns the Nigerien Security Society (SNS), which has reportedly secured lucrative security contracts abandoned by dissolved firms, including those once held by Gadnet Security, previously the country’s largest operator.
The development comes after the junta ordered the dissolution of nearly 400 private security companies, leaving only 73 in operation. Authorities described the move as part of efforts to “sanitize” an opaque sector, but critics argue that the shake-up has favoured companies linked to individuals close to the regime.
Sources said market shares from the dissolved corporations were redistributed to a handful of well-connected allies, including those aligned with senior junta figures such as Generals Abdourahamane Tiani, Salifou Modi, and Aboubacar Toumba.
Diallo is now accused of using his proximity to power to gain advantage in Niger’s lucrative security business, particularly in contracts with mining companies.
Human rights and anti-corruption organisations have filed complaints in international courts against him, citing alleged financial support to the junta and questionable business practices. His name has since appeared on sanction lists targeting associates of the military regime.
Diallo’s wife, Hadja Halima, is also under scrutiny. Known as a shadow adviser to General Tiani, she has long been identified as part of the inner circle of military officers who influence political and economic decisions in Niamey.
Analysts say the case of Diallo point to how Niger’s political crisis has reshaped the country’s security industry, turning it into a gold mine for allies of the ruling elite, while leaving questions about transparency and accountability unanswered.
