Niger’s Ministry of the Interior has formally dissolved 400 private security companies under a decree that came into effect in February 2025. Authorities say the move is part of efforts to regulate a sector considered highly sensitive.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions. While some advocates of private security welcome the measure, others warn that the abrupt dissolution could leave gaps in security provision and create socioeconomic challenges for those employed in the sector.

Observers are now urging the government to outline measures to mitigate the impact of this reform.