Gunfire, Explosions Shake Niger's Capital

Heavy gunfire and loud explosions rattled Niger’s capital city of Niamey on Saturday morning, with witnesses reporting intense clashes surrounding Air Force Base 101 near the international airport.

Residents and social media posts confirmed that shooting began around 1:00 am local time and continued until daybreak. At the same time, additional sporadic small-arms fire broke out near the administrative district housing the presidential palace.

Authorities deployed armoured vehicles to reinforce key neighbourhoods near the airport, though the military junta has not yet issued an official statement regarding the origin of the violence.

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The target area houses critical military infrastructure, including the headquarters of Russia’s Africa Corps partners and the unified command of the Alliance of Sahel States.

Gunfire and explosions shake Niger capital (News Central TV) — Gunfire and explosions shake Niger’s capital. Credit: Africanews

The base has suffered two major terrorist incursions this year alone, following a January attack by Islamic State in the Sahel (EIS) fighters and a June assault by Al-Qaeda affiliate JNIM.

The escalating instability underscores the ongoing security struggles of General Abdourahamane Tiani’s military regime, which seized power in a July 2023 coup but continues to face severe threats from rival militant factions across the region.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.