Sustained heavy gunfire and loud explosions were heard near Niamey’s Diori Hamani International Airport in the early hours of Thursday, sending shockwaves through the city.
Eyewitnesses reported that air defense systems were engaged in responding to unidentified projectiles, with the situation calming down after two hours.
While an official stated that the situation was under control, there is no information on casualties or the cause of the blasts.
The airport, which houses an air force base, is located about 10km from the presidential palace, adding to the concern over the incident. Niger, led by Abdourahamane Tiani since a 2023 coup, has been grappling with jihadist groups and is a major uranium producer.
A significant uranium shipment has been stuck at the airport due to diplomatic complications with France following the nationalization of uranium mines.
A Foreign Affairs ministry official said they were trying to determine if the gunfire was linked to the uranium shipment, adding, “The situation is under control. There is no need to worry”
