Niger Republic Junta Says Mutinous Soldiers Attempted Coup In Niamey

The National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP), the ruling military junta in Niger Republic, said soldiers within the country’s military forces attempted a coup on Saturday.

Heavy gunfire and explosions were reported early Saturday morning in several parts of Niamey, the Nigerien capital.

The assailants targeted Diori Hamani International Airport, which houses an air force base and is located about 10 kilometres from the presidential palace.

They also reportedly attempted to breach the security perimeter around the presidency.

The airport is home to the headquarters of Russia’s Africa Corps in Niamey, as well as the command centre of the Alliance of Sahel States joint force, comprising Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali.

The CNSP said some soldiers, in breach of military discipline and regulations, attempted to hold fellow officers hostage at Base 101 in Niamey, while gunshots were also reported at several sensitive locations in the capital.

Niger’s Minister of National Defence, Salifou Moudi, said security forces quickly intervened and had gradually regained control of the affected areas.

The authorities called on residents to remain calm and continue with their normal activities.

The CNSP said defence and security forces remained mobilised to protect the country, urging citizens to remain united and vigilant.

The latest incident came after two previous attacks on the airport in January and June.

Niger has been under military rule since July 2023, when Abdourahamane Tchiani led a coup that ousted former President Mohamed Bazoum.