Gunfire and explosions reported in Niamey, Niger, near military base and airport
Gunfire and explosions were heard in Niamey, Niger, on Saturday morning, August 29, 2026, particularly around the military base adjacent to the international airport. Residents reported sustained firing and detonations near Niamey's Base 101, with initial shots heard around 1:00 AM local time and continuing into dawn. Sporadic small arms fire was also reported in the Koira Kano district. Social media posts mentioned gunfire and explosions in the administrative area, which houses the presidential palace and national television. Armored vehicles were reportedly deployed near the airport, and pro-junta activists claimed the situation was "under control." The origin of the firing remains unknown, and no official communication has been issued. Niger has been governed by a military junta for three years and continues to face persistent jihadist violence. The Niamey airport has been targeted twice this year by jihadists, first by the Islamic State in January and then by JNIM, Al-Qaeda's Sahel branch, in late June. Both attacks were repelled by the army, though the June incident resulted in 11 soldiers and two civilians killed. General Abdourahamane Tiani, head of the military regime that came to power after the July 2023 coup, had previously cited a "security flaw" that allowed the January attack, which aimed to destroy the army's air capabilities. Base 101, located within the international airport complex, hosts the headquarters of Niamey's Russian partners, Africa Corps, and the s
