17 soldiers, others killed as buses collide in Niger

A tragic head-on collision between two buses in southern Niger claimed the lives of at least 22 people, including 17 soldiers, the country's transport ministry announced Saturday. The accident happened Friday night about 35 miles from Madaoua, the ministry stated. Another 37 individuals sustained injuries.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. This incident highlights the ongoing campaign by Nigerien officials to raise awareness about road safety. Road accidents are a persistent problem in the West African nation.

According to the Nigerien Agency for Road Safety, Niger recorded over 7,000 road accidents in 2025. These incidents resulted in more than 1,200 fatalities and left over 4,400 people with serious injuries. Speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, and the poor condition of roads and vehicles are identified as the primary causes of these frequent accidents.

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At least 22 people have died, 17 of them soldiers, after two buses crashed into each other in southern Niger, the West African country’s transport ministry said Saturday.