Niger clarifies casualties after deadly attack on Niamey Airport and Military base

The Government of Niger, through the Ministry of Defence, has issued an official statement regarding the attack on Diori Hamani International Airport and the adjacent military airbase in Niamey, the country's capital.

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According to the statement, the assault targeted the airport-airbase complex. Eyewitnesses reported hearing explosions and sustained gunfire in and around the facility before security forces regained control of the area.

Reports indicate that some of the attackers arrived in a commercial taxi and opened fire on the military base. Security forces responded swiftly, resulting in the neutralisation of 22 attackers, while several others were arrested.

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The government confirmed that 11 members of the security forces and two civilians were killed during the exchange of fire.

Guidi Abdourahaman, popularly known as Junior, a Nigerien journalist with Alternative Radio in Diffa, told Ghanaian journalist Ibrahim Abode that residents are currently living in fear following the attack. However, he noted that a strong military presence has been deployed across the area to maintain security.

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Niger, under the leadership of Captain Abdourahamane Tchiani, has been battling terrorist groups operating across the sub-region. Neighbouring countries, including Burkina Faso and Mali, are facing similar security challenges.

Story By: Ibrahim Abode