Explosions and heavy gunfire were reported early Thursday around the airport and military airbase in Niger’s capital, Niamey, raising concerns over a possible militant attack on one of the country’s key security installations.
According to witnesses, the first explosions occurred at approximately 6:00 a.m. local time, followed by intermittent gunfire that lasted for nearly two hours. Security forces swiftly moved to secure the area and restricted access to the facility as the situation unfolded.
A security source described the incident as an apparent attack on the airport complex, although authorities had yet to provide an official assessment. No group immediately claimed responsibility, and government officials did not respond to requests for comment.
The latest violence comes several months after an affiliate of the Islamic State claimed responsibility for a January assault on the same airport. The extremist group said it had targeted military aviation facilities and drone assets, describing the operation as a strike against Niger’s counterinsurgency efforts.
Niger continues to grapple with insurgent attacks linked to both al-Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates. Together with neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso, the country remains at the centre of a prolonged security crisis that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions across the Sahel region.
Witnesses said loud explosions and gunfire echoed across the airport area on Thursday morning as security personnel responded to the threat and worked to secure the facility.
Following the January attack, Niger’s Defence Ministry reported that assailants arrived on motorcycles but were repelled by security forces. Four soldiers were injured in the confrontation, while a fire triggered by exploding ammunition caused material damage and affected several civilian aircraft.
In the aftermath of that attack, Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, accused France, Benin and Côte d’Ivoire of backing the assault, though he presented no evidence to support the allegations. He also pledged a strong response against those responsible.
