Niger: 25 soldiers killed in attack on base

At least 25 soldiers have been killed in an attack on an army base in Niger, close to its western border with neighbouring Mali, by suspected Islamist insurgents. 

The Nigerian army said more than 60 militants were killed in response, with the aid of air support from international partners.

Along with other countries in the region, Niger has been experiencing an upsurge in attacks from Islamic militants.

71 soldiers were killed last month when they were ambushed by a group affiliated with the so-called Islamic State.

This most recent attack comes just days before France is due to host a conference on security in the Sahel region.

Niger is part of the G5 Sahel Group, a French-backed security force that brings together Niger, Mali, Mauritania, Chad and Burkina Faso, with the aim of stamping out militants operating in the region.

Photo credit: BBC News