Niger coup leader Gen Tchiani promises to handover power in three years

Niger's coup leader has promised to return the West African nation to civilian rule within three years.

Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani made the announcement after meeting mediators from the West African regional bloc Ecowas in the capital, Niamey.

Ecowas has threatened military action to reverse last month's overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum if talks fail.

The junta head said that Niger did not want a war but would defend itself against any foreign intervention.