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Heavy gunfire and explosions near Niamey airport
Residents of Niger's capital, Niamey, reported sustained gunfire and loud explosions close to the international airport in the early hours of Thursday, with air defence systems apparently responding to unidentified projectiles.
Updated 02:30 UTC - The situation has since stabilised, though authorities have not disclosed the cause or confirmed any casualties.
Eyewitness accounts and initial response
Gunfire erupted shortly after midnight near Diori Hamani International Airport, according to residents in the surrounding neighbourhood. The AFP news agency cited locals who said the disturbances lasted approximately two hours before subsiding.
Videos shared on social media showed what appeared to be air defence systems engaging targets, though the nature of the projectiles remains unclear.
Official silence on cause and casualties
Niger's military government, which seized power in a 2023 coup, has not issued an official statement regarding the incident. No details have been provided about potential casualties or the source of the blasts.
The airport, located about 10 kilometres from the presidential palace, also serves as an air force base, raising concerns about the security of critical infrastructure.
Possible links to uranium shipment dispute
An unnamed official from Niger's Foreign Affairs ministry told Anadolu news agency that the situation was now under control but offered no further explanation. The official added that authorities were investigating whether the gunfire was connected to a stalled uranium shipment at the airport.
The shipment, destined for export, has been held amid legal and diplomatic tensions with France following the military government's nationalisation of Niger's uranium mines. The country is a significant global producer of the mineral.
Regional instability and security concerns
Niger, led by coup leader Abdourahamane Tiani, has been grappling with jihadist insurgencies similar to those in neighbouring Burkina Faso and Mali. Deadly attacks by militant groups have plagued the region, exacerbating security challenges.
The Foreign Affairs ministry official sought to reassure the public, stating,
"The situation is under control. There is no need to worry."
Next steps
Further updates are expected as authorities investigate the incident. The military government has yet to release an official statement, leaving key questions unanswered.
