Diffa, Niger – Rebels from the National Movement for Freedom and Justice (MPLJ) attacked the Dibella-Agadem oil site in the Diffa region of eastern Niger. This marks the latest in a series of attacks targeting vital infrastructure in the country’s oil sector. According to a statement attributed to the movement, the rebels, loyal to former President Mohamed Bazoum, reportedly killed at least 24 members of the defense forces and destroyed three military vehicles. They also damaged oil infrastructure at the site. The movement acknowledged the death of one of its fighters during the attack. However, unofficial reports circulating on social media indicate that the attack was repelled by government forces, resulting in the deaths of approximately 30 attackers. There has been no independent confirmation of casualty figures from either side.
The MPLJ movement, which emerged from the National Liberation Front (FPL), has adopted a strategy of targeting the Termit Basin oil facilities and the crude oil export pipeline to the Benin coast. This pipeline is primarily operated by the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) and its subsidiary WEPCO. These facilities are crucial to the Nigerien economy and a major source of foreign currency for the National Security Council authorities. Furthermore, unofficial estimates suggest that the economic losses resulting from any production stoppage could reach approximately 5 billion CFA francs per day, further exacerbating the country’s financial difficulties.
It is worth noting that the Debella-Agadem site was previously attacked on December 6, 2025, as part of a series of operations targeting the oil sector. This escalation comes amidst a complex security situation in Niger. It coincides with the growing activity of armed groups in several regions, including the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara and the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims in Tillabéri. Furthermore, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram have emerged in Diffa. Therefore, security challenges are among the most pressing issues facing the country’s authorities.
