Fresh security fears gripped Niger’s capital after gunfire and explosions were reported at Niamey’s main airport overnight, leaving two commercial aircraft damaged on the tarmac. Witnesses described blasts at the airport, near a military air base, while airline sources said bullets pierced the fuselages of parked planes, stranding crew members in the country. With authorities yet to confirm who was responsible or whether anyone was hurt, the incident underscores Niger’s fragile security climate since the 2023 military coup. The junta’s break with Western allies, withdrawal from ECOWAS, and pivot toward new partners have done little to stem violence. Despite the military’s promises, jihadist attacks continue to surge, with Niger recording a sharp spike in terrorism-related deaths last year.
The Guardian
