In brief
Sustained gunfire and explosions were reported near the international airport in Niamey, Niger, early Thursday morning. Eyewitness accounts described air defenses responding to unidentified projectiles, with calm restored after approximately two hours. The exact cause remains unclear, and there are reports of heightened security measures in the area.
Sustained heavy gunfire and loud explosions have been heard in Niger near the international airport outside the capital, Niamey. Multiple eyewitness accounts and videos showed air defense systems engaging unidentified projectiles in the early hours of Thursday. The situation later calmed down, reports say, with an official reportedly stating that things were now under control, though no details were provided.The gunfire and blasts began shortly after midnight, according to residents living near the Diori Hamani International Airport. Witnesses heard shots being fired from outside the airport, apparently targeting planes. Locals described their fear during the incident, with one resident recalling, “We didn't sleep last night. Our room and the whole house was shaking from the gunshots and explosions.” There were also unconfirmed reports of unknown assailants throwing explosive devices towards the airport before exchanging fire with security forces.Several flights bound for Niamey were diverted as a result of the chaos. A significant security presence was reported around the airport on Thursday morning following the incidents.Niger is currently led by Abdourahamane Tiani, following a coup that ousted the country’s elected president in 2023. The nation has been grappling with jihadist violence similar to that affecting neighboring countries like Burkina Faso and Mali. Additionally, complications concerning a major uranium shipment have created further turmoil in the area. According to a foreign affairs ministry official, the situation is under control and investigations are underway to determine whether the gunfire was connected to the uranium shipment.
