A solemn ceremony of recognition and tribute was organized on October 2, 2026, in Diffa, Niger, in honor of General Ali Hamidou Issa, following his mission as head of the tactical device in Diffa and Operation NALEWA DOLÉ. The ceremony, held at the General's residence in the Administrative district of Diffa, brought together the Governor of the region, General Mahamadou Ibrahim Bagadoma, administrative authorities, and various stakeholders.
The ceremony began with the execution of the national anthem and featured several testimonies and official satisfaction awards to General Ali Hamidou Issa, in recognition of his career and commitment to the Diffa region. Adjutant-chef Aboukar Boulama Oumara, on behalf of his former fellow soldiers, delivered a particularly moving testimony about the General's career, highlighting his bravery and dedication to the region.
In his address, Governor General Mahamadou Ibrahim Bagadoma paid tribute to General Ali, describing him as a "brother in arms and a valiant officer." The Governor emphasized that spending 18 years of his military career in the same area is exceptional, and that General Ali has been involved in all the battles to restore peace and security in the region, facing terrorist challenges.
General Ali Hamidou Issa assumed his responsibilities as head of the operational device on August 5, 2023, initially as Commander of Sector 4 of the Multinational Mixed Force (FMM), then as Chief of Tactical Staff and Commander of Operation NALEWA DOLÉ. He exercised his responsibilities in a particularly demanding security context, marked by the persistence of threats from armed terrorist groups.
During his tenure, General Ali Hamidou Issa oversaw various military operations and achieved notable results on the ground. He also prioritized the protection of populations, their property, and strategic infrastructure, particularly in the Agadem oil basin. The General emphasized that the primary goal of his actions was to ensure the security and stability of the region.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of an official satisfaction award to General Ali Hamidou Issa, in recognition of his commitment and dedication to the Diffa region. The award was presented by Governor General Mahamadou Ibrahim Bagadoma, on behalf of the region of Diffa. General Ali's new assignments were not specified during the ceremony.
Key stakeholders, including local authorities, security forces, and civil society representatives, attended the ceremony, demonstrating their appreciation for General Ali Hamidou Issa's service and commitment to the region. The event highlighted the importance of his contributions to maintaining peace and security in Diffa.
Key points
- General Ali Hamidou Issa was honored for his 18 years of service in the Diffa region, including his leadership of Operation NALEWA DOLÉ.
- The ceremony was attended by various stakeholders, including local authorities, security forces, and civil society representatives.
- General Ali Hamidou Issa was recognized for his commitment to protecting populations, property, and strategic infrastructure in the region.
