Satellite imagery captured two weeks ago has revealed the military zone of Niamey airport in Niger, providing a visual context to recent alarming events. According to reports from Reuters and an independent source, gunfire and loud blasts were heard at the main airport in the Nigerien capital of Niamey, raising serious security concerns.
Incident Details and Immediate Impact
The apparent explosions occurred just after midnight, as reported by a witness to Reuters. The airport is situated adjacent to Base Aérienne 101, a military base that has historically been used by American and later Russian troops, adding a layer of geopolitical significance to the location.
Damage to Aircraft and Stranded Staff
A source from the Togolese airline Asky disclosed that gunshots resulted in several holes in the fuselage of two of its planes parked on the tarmac at Niamey airport. At the time of the incident, staff were at their hotel but have since been left stranded in the country. The source stated, "They destroyed both aircraft ... they left evidence at the scene," though it remains unclear who was responsible for the gunfire or if there were any casualties. Authorities in Niger have yet to issue an official comment on the developing situation.
Background: Political and Security Context
This incident unfolds against a backdrop of political instability in Niger. In July 2023, the presidential guard, led by General Abdourahmane Tchiani, overthrew the democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum. This marked the seventh successful coup in West and Central Africa within three years at that point, with at least one successful coup and two failed attempts occurring in the region since the Niger coup.
International Reactions and Geopolitical Shifts
Following the coup, the junta suspended the constitution, facing widespread international condemnation and cuts in aid. After the Economic Community of West African States imposed sanctions and threatened military intervention, Niger withdrew from the regional bloc alongside Mali and Burkina Faso—both also under military rule—to form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in September 2023. Additionally, Niger expelled French and US forces, signalling a significant geopolitical realignment away from its former traditional allies.
Ongoing Security Challenges
Niger continues to grapple with jihadism, as armed groups linked to Islamic State and al-Qaeda affiliates persistently attack the tri-border region with Mali and Burkina Faso. Despite the junta's promises to restore stability, the security situation has deteriorated significantly since the coup. The Global Terrorism Index 2025 reports that Niger recorded the largest increase in terrorism deaths globally in 2024, with a 94% rise to a total of 930 deaths, marking the country's worst ranking since the index began.
This recent incident at Niamey airport underscores the fragile security environment in Niger, highlighting the ongoing risks to infrastructure and personnel amid broader regional instability.
