Prosper Okoye
Authorities say the situation near Niger’s main international airport has stabilised following reports of heavy gunfire and explosions early on Thursday, though the cause remains unclear.
Residents near Diori Hamani International Airport, which also houses a military air base, reported intense bursts of gunfire and multiple explosions shortly after midnight.
Videos circulating on social media appear to show air defence systems firing at unidentified objects in the sky, though this has not been independently verified.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelSecurity sources said the incident could constitute a “terrorist attack,” prompting reinforced security around the airport.
Some residents speculated that gunmen may have attempted an attack but were repelled by soldiers.
The airport has been partially closed, with travel advisories from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office warning of potential flight disruptions.
At least one commercial aircraft, an Air Côte d’Ivoire Airbus A319, was reportedly hit by gunfire, with damage to the fuselage.
Investigations into the extent of the damage and any impact on crew and passengers are ongoing.
Officials are also examining whether the incident is linked to a stranded uranium shipment at the airport, stuck for weeks amid post-nationalisation disputes with France. No connection has been confirmed.
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Niger’s military-led government, headed by General Abdourahamane Tiani since a 2023 coup, has not issued a detailed statement. A Foreign Affairs ministry official said the situation is “under control” and urged calm, but offered no further details.
The incident comes amid ongoing insecurity in the Sahel, where jihadist groups continue to carry out deadly attacks. It also highlights tensions following Niger’s nationalisation of uranium mines, which has strained relations with France and affected exports.
As of Thursday morning, life in much of Niamey continues normally, except for areas around the airport, and no casualties have been officially confirmed.
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
