Dozens of soldiers have been arrested or killed following an apparent mutiny in Niger’s capital, Niamey, in a development that posed a major challenge to the country’s military government.
The unrest began on Saturday after dissident soldiers attacked a military facility at Diori Hamani International Airport. Gunfire and explosions were subsequently reported around key government and military installations, including the presidential palace and the state broadcaster.
Niger’s state television later showed footage of dozens of detained soldiers, while authorities said loyalist forces had succeeded in regaining control of the affected areas.
The military government described the incident as an attempted mutiny and said the situation had been brought under control.
The fighting reportedly lasted for several hours as the mutineers attempted to take control of strategic locations in the capital. The incident was considered a serious threat to the junta led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, who seized power in the July 2023 coup that removed President Mohamed Bazoum.
Reports indicate that the mutiny was driven partly by dissatisfaction among some soldiers over the worsening security situation and the military’s struggle to contain attacks by armed jihadist groups.
Niger has faced persistent attacks from groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State, particularly in regions bordering Mali and Burkina Faso. The security crisis has placed considerable pressure on the military authorities, despite their promise to improve national security after taking power.
The attempted uprising also comes amid Niger’s growing military cooperation with Russia. Russia’s Africa Corps reportedly provided ground and aerial support to Nigerien forces as they moved to suppress the rebellion, following a request from the government.
By Sunday, authorities said the situation in Niamey had stabilised and government forces had regained control of the strategic military base at the airport.
The incident is likely to raise further questions about divisions within Niger’s armed forces and the junta’s ability to maintain stability while confronting persistent militant attacks.
Niger is part of the Alliance of Sahel States alongside Mali and Burkina Faso, whose military governments have also strengthened security and defence ties with Russia while reducing their dependence on traditional Western partners.
For now, Nigerien authorities have urged citizens to remain calm as security forces continue operations to identify and detain those accused of participating in the mutiny.
