RismadarVoice Reporters, August 30, 2026
Niger’s military government says it has regained control of a key military airbase in the capital, Niamey, following an attack by mutinous soldiers that triggered heavy security operations in the city.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday, marked a new challenge for military leader Abdourahamane Tiani as his administration continues efforts to contain a growing jihadist insurgency in the country.
According to state media reports, the attack involved hundreds of soldiers, with fighting lasting several hours as forces loyal to Tiani moved to retake control of the facility.
The military airbase, located within the same complex as Niamey’s civilian airport, houses military aircraft, drones and a counter-terrorism unit of the Alliance of Sahel States, which includes Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso.
Explosions and gunfire were reported in parts of Niamey early Saturday, including areas around the airbase and the presidential palace.
Security sources said the Presidential Guard responded in support of Tiani during the confrontation. The military leader had not made a public appearance as of Sunday morning.
Niger’s state media reported that some mutineers surrendered after the operation, although the claims have not been independently verified.
The unrest comes amid growing pressure on Niger’s armed forces, which have suffered repeated losses while fighting armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates across the Sahel region.
Analysts say frustration among frontline troops has increased due to continued attacks by jihadist groups and challenges facing the country’s security operations.
The airbase had previously been targeted twice this year, including an attack in January by an Islamic State affiliate and another in June by an al-Qaeda-linked group.
Niger has been under military rule since a July 2023 coup that removed elected President Mohamed Bazoum. Since taking power, Tiani’s government has reduced ties with Western partners, strengthened relations with Russia and withdrawn from regional bloc ECOWAS.
The country, which holds significant uranium, oil and gold resources, is also facing international attention over changes in its mining and energy sectors.
