Niamey: Heavy gunfire and explosions rocked Niger’s capital early on Saturday after attackers targeted Diori Hamani International Airport, the adjoining military base and areas near the presidential palace, prompting the government to mobilise security forces and urge citizens to remain calm.
The fresh violence has added to growing concerns over security in the wider West African region, where militant attacks and kidnappings have continued despite efforts by governments to strengthen their security apparatus.
Airport and presidency come under attack
The airport complex, which also houses Air Base 101, came under sustained attack during the early hours. Witnesses reported heavy shooting and explosions, while security sources said attackers also attempted to breach the security perimeter around the presidency.
Nigerien authorities said defence and security forces had been mobilised. A member of the country’s Consultative Council said security forces had regained control of Base 101, while reports indicated that loyalist troops had secured the presidential area. However, the situation around the airport remained uncertain for some time.
The identity and exact nature of the attackers remained unclear in the initial reports. Some sources described them as mutinous soldiers, while others referred to them as terrorists. Authorities had not released an official casualty figure.
Security concerns grow across West Africa
The incident comes as Niger continues to struggle with Islamist insurgencies linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State. The country has been under military rule since the July 2023 coup that brought General Abdourahamane Tiani to power.
Against this backdrop, concerns have also grown in India over the safety of nationals caught in the region’s worsening security environment. Calls have been made for the Centre to step up diplomatic efforts to secure the safe release of an abducted Indian national.
The situation highlights the risks faced by foreign workers and citizens in parts of West Africa, where armed groups and criminal networks continue to exploit security gaps.
India faces a delicate diplomatic challenge
The latest developments underline the importance of close coordination between Indian diplomatic authorities and governments in the region when Indian nationals are caught in conflict or kidnapping situations.
For families waiting for the safe return of loved ones, the priority remains clear: securing their release while avoiding further risks to their lives.
As Niger works to restore calm in Niamey, the latest attack is likely to intensify questions over the military government’s ability to protect key national institutions and tackle the wider security crisis.