Sustained heavy gunfire and loud explosions have been reported near the international airport in Niamey, Niger's capital. Eyewitness accounts indicated that air defense systems were activated early Thursday morning to engage unidentified projectiles. Residents reported that the gunfire and blasts began shortly after midnight and continued for about two hours before the situation calmed down.
Multiple unverified reports suggest that unknown assailants may have thrown explosive devices towards the airport before engaging in a fierce exchange with security forces. Many residents expressed fear, recounting how their homes trembled from the blasts and gunfire.
A local resident shared, We didn't sleep last night. Our room and the whole house was shaking from the gunshots and explosions.” The situation is still shrouded in uncertainty, with no confirmed information regarding the motivations behind the attack or any casualties.
The airport, which also houses an air force base and is located approximately 10 km from the presidential palace, saw no immediate official security update from the military government, which only stated that the situation is now under control without further elaboration.
In light of the unrest, several flights destined for Niamey were diverted, highlighting the significant impact of the chaos on civil aviation. The Nigerian government, currently led by Abdourahamane Tiani after a coup in 2023, is navigating considerable challenges amid ongoing jihadist pressures and regional instability.
Authorities have reported a heavy security presence around the airport following the incidents, and discussions are ongoing as investigations begin to determine the relationship, if any, between the gunfire and a contentious uranium shipment that has faced multiple legal and diplomatic challenges recently.
