According to a report, the new government of Niger has allegedly signed a military contract with Russia's Wagner mercenaries.

This comes after the coup in the country that overthrew elected president Mohamed Bazoum on July 26.

Wagner, a well-known mercenary group, is known for its involvement in conflicts in Syria, Ukraine, and Africa.

The tweet by American journalist Jackson Hinkle, citing France 24, states that the Nigerien government has reached out to Wagner for assistance.

After a coup in Niger, it was reported that President Bola Tinubu had authorized Nigeria's military to take a leading role in an ECOWAS invasion of the country.

Meanwhile, protests in the capital city, Niamey, were in support of the coup and the new leader, General Abdourahmane Tchiani.

Some protesters were reported to be carrying Russian flags and voicing support for Vladimir Putin.

These developments come after the former commander of the president's guard, Tchiani, announced that he had assumed power.

The Russian government has distanced itself from the coup in Niger, with the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, calling for the release of ousted president Mohamed Bazoum.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov also called for restraint from all parties involved.

However, there are concerns that the Wagner Group, a private military company with close ties to the Russian government, could use the opportunity to expand its influence in Africa.