Heavy gunfire, explosions rock Niger Capital near Airport

Heavy gunfire and explosions were reported on Thursday around Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, the capital of Niger Republic, sparking panic and a major security response across the city.

Security sources said the incident began in the early hours of the day. They added that sustained gunfire lasted for more than two hours in and around the airport area.

The exact nature of the incident remains unclear. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on whether it was a terrorist attack, an assault on security installations, or a possible attempted coup-related operation.

Residents in several parts of Niamey were advised to stay indoors as security forces moved to contain the situation and restore order.

Security sources said a cordon was quickly established around key areas of the capital, including the Hospital Roundabout. Heavily armed personnel were also deployed at major checkpoints leading to the Presidential Palace.

Witnesses reported a heavy military presence across strategic locations in the city as authorities worked to prevent further escalation.

Diori Hamani International Airport, which also hosts Air Base 101, is one of Niger’s most sensitive security installations. It lies about 10 kilometres from the Presidential Palace.

The facility had previously come under attack on January 28 and 29, 2026, in an incident blamed on suspected Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP) and ISWAP fighters.

However, there is no confirmation that Thursday’s incident is linked to the earlier attack, and no group has claimed responsibility.

Security sources said the situation was gradually stabilising, although operations were still ongoing across parts of the capital.

Authorities are expected to provide further details as investigations continue.