The ministry said around 20 suspects were arrested and four members of the defense and security forces wounded. It stressed that the airport is now under full military control and remains open to air traffic. Local residents reported gunfire at 6:00 a.m. near the main gate and security checkpoint. Reinforcements were deployed to surrounding neighborhoods, particularly along Changa Road, where sweeping operations were carried out to track down armed men.

Witnesses said passengers were initially prevented from boarding flights, but later confirmed the situation was stabilized. The airport had previously been attacked in January by Islamic State in the Sahel, prompting tighter security measures including expanded fencing and 350 surveillance cameras. Military leader Abdourahmane Tiani admitted at the time to “system gaps” and pledged reforms.

The latest assault underscores Niger’s ongoing security challenges alongside Mali and Burkina Faso, where jihadist groups linked to IS and al-Qaeda continue to escalate attacks. Analysts note that Niger’s shift away from France and toward new partnerships has reshaped its security strategy, but the country remains vulnerable to large-scale militant operations.