[UPDATE-Aug 9-23:45Z] Tensions Rise on Nigeria-Niger Border After Ultimatum to Rebels Expires

Niger’s elite troops start moving towards capital city’s airport Elite units of the Nigerian army have begun advancing to the airport of the capital city Niamey, the Al Arabiya TV channel reports. According to the broadcaster, the elite units of Niger’s army “are advancing towards the presidential palace and the airport”. The channel does not mention the strength of the units heading towards these facilities or their intentions. Meanwhile, The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and its current chairman, Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, prefer a diplomatic solution to the situation in Niger, Tinubu’s spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale said…