Heavy gunfire and loud explosions have been heard near the Diori Hamani International Airport outside Niger's capital, Niamey. Following reports from multiple eyewitnesses, military air defense systems were engaged in the early hours of Thursday in response to unidentified projectiles. However, the situation stabilized after about two hours, with official sources claiming that it is now under control, although no further details were provided.

The disturbances began shortly after midnight, as residents near the airport reported sustained shooting and blasts. Calm was restored after a period of intense activity, but it remains unclear what provoked the blasts or if there have been any casualties.

The airport, located roughly ten kilometers from the presidential palace, not only serves commercial flights but also houses a military air force base. Like neighboring countries, Niger has been embroiled in conflict with jihadist factions responsible for numerous violent attacks across the region. Currently, the country's military government is dealing with complications surrounding the export of a large uranium shipment, halted amid a dispute with France after the nationalization of uranium mines.

A Foreign Affairs ministry official assured the public that the situation is under control, acknowledging the ongoing investigation into the connection between the gunfire and the uranium shipment issues. The military government, led by Abdourahamane Tiani since a coup in 2023, faces continued security challenges in a region plagued by militant attacks.