Gunfire and explosions were reported around Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, which also houses a major military base.
Gunfire and explosions were heard in several parts of Niamey, Niger Republic’s capital, early Saturday as armed attackers targeted Diori Hamani International Airport.
The airport, located about 10 kilometres from the presidential palace, also houses an air force base and a major military installation.
Bana Wagana Ibrahim, a member of Niger’s Bureau of the Consultative Council and deputy in the Alliance of Sahel States Parliament, confirmed the attack in a Facebook post, saying security forces had brought the situation under control.
Niger’s Defence Ministry later said the armed forces were progressively retaking control of affected sites in a statement aired on state television.
The identity of the attackers and details of any casualties remain unclear. However, a security source cited by Reuters said terrorists attempted to breach the security perimeter around the presidency.
The incident comes about two months after an attack on the same airport in June, which killed 11 security personnel and two civilians. Authorities said 22 attackers were also killed and 20 suspects arrested.
Diori Hamani International Airport was previously attacked in January, with Islamic State claiming responsibility.
Niger has been under military rule since July 2023 following the coup led by Abdourahamane Tchiani. Since then, the country has strengthened ties with Russia while reducing its traditional security cooperation with Western countries.