At least 29 soldiers were killed in an attack by suspected extremists in western Niger, the defence ministry said, declaring a three-day national mourning period.
According to the ministry, soldiers were targeted using "improvised explosive devices and kamikaze vehicles by more than a hundred terrorists".
The ministry added that the attack took place near the country's border with Mali, during military operations in the area.
Officials further added that two soldiers were seriously wounded and "several dozen terrorists" were also killed.
"Communications from the terrorists, who were forced to withdraw, have been intercepted", the ministry said, adding that the attackers "benefitted from outside expertise".
Notably, the "three borders" area between Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso is regularly the scene of attacks by militants.
