Life returned to normal in Niger’s capital, Niamey, on Sunday after security forces, backed by Russia’s Africa Corps, crushed a mutiny by soldiers that had threatened the military government of General Abdourahamane Tiani.
The fighting began overnight Friday into Saturday, with mutineers attacking a military airbase at Diori Hamani International Airport and attempting to advance toward the presidential palace. Nigerien forces, supported by Russian paramilitaries, regained control of the airbase after hours of fighting. Several mutineers were killed and others arrested, according to security sources.
By Sunday, access to the airport and presidential complex had reopened, while shops and the main market in Niamey resumed operations. A heightened security presence remained around key sites.
Tiani, who seized power in a 2023 coup, has not publicly commented on the mutiny. The attempted uprising represents one of the most serious challenges to his rule since he took power.
Algeria also stepped up its support for Niger, deploying four Su-30 fighter jets to Niamey in a show of solidarity with the junta. Meanwhile, Niger’s neighbors and allies, including the Alliance of Sahel States, expressed support for the government.
The unrest comes as Niger continues to face persistent attacks by jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State, while growing frustration within the armed forces has raised concerns about internal tensions within the junta.
