The Minister of Interior, General Mohamed Toumba, outlined that the Garkouwar Kassa initiative will assist Nigerien security forces through coordinated night patrols, civic education programs, and community service projects. The goal is to reinforce local defense against both external threats and internal destabilizing actors. Activities will include promoting civic duty, countering foreign and domestic propaganda, and enhancing cooperation between citizens and the state security apparatus.

While the initiative is seen by supporters as a patriotic response to regional instability, it comes amid broader efforts by the ruling junta to consolidate public support and strengthen internal control.

Civil Society Groups Warn Of Political And Social Risks

Critics from within Niger’s civil society have expressed alarm at the potential consequences of arming and mobilizing civilians under a loosely structured militia model. Mamane Wada, president of the Nigerien Association Against Corruption, stated that the initiative risks reviving practices seen during the First Republic, when state-backed militias were accused of stifling dissent and enforcing loyalty through intimidation.

“Militias have caused grave problems across Africa,” Wada said, warning of possible social instability, retaliation killings, and marginalization of formal security institutions. He stressed that the defense of the population should remain the responsibility of the state’s professional armed forces, not politically affiliated civilian groups.