Niamey, Niger — Gunfire erupted early on Thursday at the Diori Hamani International Airport in Niger’s capital, Niamey, sparking immediate concern over the security situation.
The incident, which began around 6:00 AM local time, continued for nearly two hours, according to residents and security sources.
The airport, which is also home to an air force base, is located approximately 10 kilometers from the presidential palace.
The sudden outbreak of violence raised fears of a major attack on the country’s key aviation facility.
In January 2026, the Islamic State in the Sahel (EIS) claimed responsibility for an attack on the airport, underscoring the ongoing threat posed by jihadist groups in the Sahel region. Following the incident, the government demolished thousands of illegally built homes in a neighborhood near the airport, citing infiltration by jihadists. Niger, a country in west Africa’s Sahel region, has been battling violence by armed groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group for over a decade.
The recent attack at the airport raises concerns about the potential spread of such activities to the capital.
The heavy gunfire and explosions triggered speculation about the motives behind the attack, with some rumors suggesting a possible new military coup attempt in the country.
However, no official confirmation was provided to substantiate these claims.
As the investigation into the incident unfolds, Niger’s security forces remain on high alert, focusing on ensuring the safety and stability of the capital and the country.
The government is expected to provide further information and clarification on the incident in the coming days.
The attack has highlighted the need for a coordinated and comprehensive approach to address the root causes of violence in the region, emphasizing the urgency for a united front against terrorism.
As the dust settles from the incident, Niger and its neighbors will be under intense scrutiny to demonstrate their commitment to stability and security in the region.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Rédaction Africanews
