Niamey: Gunfire and explosions reported near airport and presidential palace

Heavy gunfire and explosions were reported across several areas of Niamey, Niger, during the early hours of Saturday. Witnesses noted sustained shooting near the Diori Hamani International Airport and around the presidential palace.

While the origin of the clashes remains unconfirmed and authorities have not yet issued an official statement, reports indicate that city barracks have been placed on maximum alert. The airport is a strategic site housing the Nigerien Air Force Base 101 and a drone base; it has been the target of previous attacks, including one by Islamic State in February.

Niger has been under military rule since a July 2023 coup led by General Abdourahamane Tiani. The country, along with neighbors Mali and Burkina Faso, continues to face security challenges from Islamist insurgencies linked to al Qaeda and the Islamic State.