Heavy gunfire and explosions have rocked Niamey, the capital of Niger Republic, with attackers targeting key military and government installations in the early hours of Saturday.
The incident sparked fears of a fresh attempt to destabilise the military-led government, although the identity and motive of the attackers remained unclear.
Sustained gunfire was reported around Diori Hamani International Airport, while explosions were also heard near the presidential palace and a major military installation in the capital.
Security sources said the attackers targeted the international airport and attempted to breach security around the presidential complex.
The assault reportedly also involved an attempt to gain access to Base 101, a major military installation located close to the airport.
Nigerien security forces responded to the attack and launched operations to regain control of the affected areas and track down the assailants.
A member of Niger’s Consultative Council said security forces had regained control of the military base and that the situation was under control.
However, details surrounding the incident remained unclear as authorities had yet to provide a comprehensive account of what happened.
Residents reported hearing intense shooting and explosions in several parts of Niamey, including areas around the airport and the Plateau district, where the presidential palace and other important government institutions are located.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over the political and security situation in Niger, which has been under military rule since the 2023 coup that brought General Abdourahamane Tchiani to power.
Niger has faced persistent security threats from armed extremist groups operating across the wider Sahel region, while the military government has also been dealing with political and economic pressures.
The latest attack is particularly significant because of the strategic locations reportedly targeted by the attackers.
The airport serves as one of the country’s most important transport facilities, while the nearby military base plays a key role in the security of the capital.
The reported attempt to breach areas around the presidency has also heightened concerns about the possible political dimension of the attack.
Security forces have continued search operations in the affected areas as authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
There were no immediate confirmed reports on the number of casualties or the extent of damage caused by the explosions and gunfire.
The situation remained fluid as residents awaited further information from the military authorities.
The reported restoration of control over the targeted installations has eased immediate fears of a wider takeover, but the incident has nevertheless exposed continuing security vulnerabilities around Niger’s political and military centres.
Authorities are expected to provide more information as investigations continue and security operations are completed.
The development could further intensify scrutiny of the military government’s ability to protect strategic installations and maintain stability in the capital.
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