Gunfire And Explosions Causes Panic Near Niger Airport
Explosions and heavy gunfire broke out near Niger’s main international airport in Niamey late on Thursday night, sending residents into panic and breaking the calm in the capital.
The incident happened shortly after midnight around Diori Hamani International Airport, a key facility located about 10 kilometres from the presidential palace and close to residential areas.
Residents said loud blasts and sustained gunfire echoed for nearly two hours. Videos shared online showed flashes cutting across the night sky, fires burning fiercely, and several vehicles left badly damaged near the airport zone.
The airport also hosts an air force base and serves as the headquarters of a joint military force involving Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali, raising concern over the security of strategic locations in the city.
By around 2am, the shooting had eased, with sirens heard as emergency teams moved towards the area. Authorities are yet to explain what triggered the incident or confirm whether anyone was injured or killed.
The unrest comes as Niger continues to face security threats under military rule. Shortly after the incident, a pro-government activist posted a video urging residents to take to the streets to “defend the country”, adding to tension across the capital.
