Niger’s military government says it has regained control of a key military base in the capital, Niamey, after a nearly 24-hour mutiny by soldiers exposed growing tensions within the country’s armed forces. The unrest began early Saturday at Base 101, located within Diori Hamani International Airport, where gunfire and explosions were reported around the airport, presidential palace and other sensitive sites. Authorities said the mutineers had detained fellow soldiers and attacked strategic locations. State television later showed dozens of mostly young soldiers who had been arrested following the confrontation. Officials said some soldiers were killed, although the authorities have not released a precise casualty figure.
Russia’s Africa Corps assisted Nigerien forces in suppressing the mutiny after receiving a request for support, according to Russia’s ambassador to Niger. Analysts and diplomatic sources said Russian personnel provided aerial and ground assistance during the operation to retake the base. The crisis represents one of the most serious challenges to General Abdourahamane Tchiani, who seized power in a 2023 coup. His government has moved away from traditional Western security partners, including France and the United States, and strengthened military ties with Russia. The mutiny appears to have been driven partly by frustration over worsening jihadist violence and heavy losses among troops fighting armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State. Analysts said some of the soldiers involved came from southwestern areas that have suffered repeated attacks.
The military government originally justified its 2023 takeover by saying the previous administration had failed to contain insecurity. Yet militant attacks have continued, raising questions about the government’s ability to deliver the security improvements it promised. Niger’s neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso, which together with Niger form the Alliance of Sahel States, expressed support for Tchiani’s government and said the mutiny had been contained. Algeria also voiced solidarity with Niger. By Sunday, life in Niamey was largely returning to normal, although security remained tight and checkpoints were visible around key parts of the capital. Tchiani had not made a public appearance at the time of the latest reports. The failed mutiny has nevertheless exposed possible divisions within Niger’s military and could increase pressure on Tchiani to address both battlefield losses and discontent among troops.
