Ali Saïbou (1940 – October 31, 2011) was a Nigerien military officer and politician who served as the third President of Niger, holding office from 1987 to 1993. He succeeded Seyni Kountché after his death, taking over the leadership of the country and continuing the military regime's policies, but later oversaw a transition to democratic rule.

Saïbou was born in 1940 in Dingazi, Niger. He joined the military and rose through the ranks, becoming an important figure during the rule of Seyni Kountché, who had led a coup in 1974 to oust the civilian government. Saïbou was a key member of Kountché’s ruling Supreme Military Council. When Kountché died in 1987, Saïbou took over as the head of state and leader of the military government.

Initially, Saïbou maintained the authoritarian structure of Kountché’s regime, continuing policies that included strict control over political activities. However, in the early 1990s, facing increasing domestic and international pressure for democratization, Saïbou initiated political reforms. These included the drafting of a new constitution and the creation of a multi-party system. In 1991, a National Conference was convened, which set the stage for a transition to civilian rule. This conference, composed of representatives from various political parties, civil society groups, and military officials, was a critical turning point for Niger's political development.

Despite Saïbou’s role in initiating democratic reforms, he was seen as a reluctant reformer, and his government was characterized by internal conflicts and popular protests. In 1993, Niger held its first multi-party elections, and Saïbou did not run for the presidency. The elections were won by Mahamane Ousmane, marking the end of Saïbou’s rule and the beginning of Niger’s experiment with democracy.

After stepping down, Saïbou retired from political life. He lived out his later years away from the political spotlight and passed away on October 31, 2011.

REFERENCE:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ali_Sa%C3%AFbou