That announcement coming from the electoral commission on Saturday, a day on which the significant challenges facing the ultimate winner were underlined in brutal fashion.

Security sources said suspected Islamist militants had killed at least 70 civilians near the west African countries border with Mali.

The simultaneous attacks on two villages are thought to be the latest example of violence by militants linked to Al Qaeda and Islamic state that has plagued countries across the Sahel.

Yeah, for ***, the violence is just one crisis.

Its economic situation is also critical, with more than 40% of the population living in extreme poverty Tasked with leading the country out of the turbulence will be Niger's ruling party candidate Mohamed Ba Zoom or opposition leader and former president Mahama Knee Boozman Burr.

Zoom is the favorite on in the stronger position.

After the first round, he led with more than 39% of the vote.

Guzman, the closest challenger in a crowded field, had 17%.