The Republic of Niger was plunged into tensions on Saturday, August 29, 2026, following an apparent coup attempt by a group of soldiers who attacked strategic military and government sites in the capital, Niamey.
Heavy gunfire and explosions were reported around Diori Hamani International Airport, the adjoining military installations of Base 101, and areas near the Presidential Palace.
Niger’s Defense Minister, General Salifou Mody, said soldiers broke military discipline, tried to detain some of their colleagues at Base 101 and opened fire on sensitive locations in the capital.
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He said the quick intervention of loyalist security forces had allowed authorities to contain the riot and gradually regain control of the affected areas.
Security sources also reported that insurgents belonging to the armed forces attempted to enter the Presidential Palace but were repelled by the presidential guard loyal to military leader General Abdourahamane Tchiani.
The incident forced the temporary interruption of broadcasting by Niger state television, while security forces were deployed in strategic locations in the capital.
Authorities have asked residents to remain calm and continue with their normal activities, although reports indicated that some rioters were still barricaded at the military base as efforts continued to fully restore order.
General Tchiani has ruled Niger since the July 2023 military coup that ousted elected president Mohamed Bazoum. The latest incident represents a major internal challenge for the military government, particularly amid ongoing security concerns and attacks by jihadist groups in the country.
Until Saturday, Nigerien authorities maintained that security forces were in control of the situation, while investigations continued into the identity, motives and demands of the soldiers behind the attempted uprising..
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