Shots rang out near the presidential palace before dawn. However, authorities are yet to explain why.
Gunfire and explosions were heard across parts of Niamey, Niger’s capital, in the early hours of Saturday morning. This triggered widespread fear of a coup attempt or jihadist attack as Nigerien authorities maintained silence throughout the morning.
A resident told AFP that heavy gunfire and explosions were concentrated around Air Force Base 101, located within the complex of the city’s international airport, beginning at approximately 1am local time and continuing until daybreak. Sporadic small-arms fire was also reported in western Niamey at around 5am. Several other witnesses confirmed hearing the shooting.
Reports on social media pointed to gunfire and explosions in additional parts of the capital. This includes the administrative district where the presidential palace and national television station are located. Video footage shared by a local journalist showed activity around the airport area during the early morning hours. Separately, videos circulating online showed armoured vehicles being deployed around neighbourhoods close to the airport.
No official statement had been issued by Nigerien authorities at the time of publication. The source of the attack remained unclear.
Past Incidents
The incident deepens an already alarming security picture around Niamey’s airport. The Islamic State in the Sahel claimed responsibility for an attack on the facility in January. One which Nigerien authorities said 20 attackers were killed and four soldiers wounded. In June, the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims, the Sahel branch of al-Qaeda, carried out a separate assault on the same airport, killing at least 11 soldiers and two civilians alongside 22 attackers. The military said both attacks were repelled.
The two jihadist groups are active rivals competing for influence across the Sahel region, with Niger representing one of the most contested territories in their ongoing expansion.
Whether Saturday morning’s incident is connected to either group or to something else entirely remains unknown.
READ ALSO: https://alo360.net/ecuador-moreno-sentenced-bribery-hydroelectric-2026/
