Tragedy in Niger: 22 killed in head-on bus collision, including 17 soldiers

At least 22 people, including 17 soldiers, died in a tragic head-on collision between two buses in Niger. Another 37 individuals sustained injuries in the crash, according to a statement from the Ministry of Transport.

The fatal incident occurred Friday on the Maradi-Madaoua highway, near the town of Madoua. The Ministry of Transport reported a "head-on collision" between the two buses. Information from the Niger News Agency (ANP) indicated that soldiers were aboard one of the buses, described as being at the "end of their training."

Survivors were transported to hospitals in Madoua and Maradi for treatment. Niger's official news agency reported that authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances of the accident. This crash occurs as the government is conducting a significant road safety awareness campaign, prompted by a continuous rise in traffic accidents across the country.

Niger recorded over 7,000 traffic accidents in 2025, resulting in more than 1,200 deaths and over 4,400 serious injuries, according to the Niger Road Safety Service. Speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, and the poor condition of vehicles and roads are identified as the primary causes. In response, authorities have implemented awareness campaigns, including breathalyzer tests and speed-limiting devices, since 2025.