Flight operations resumed on Friday at Diori Hamani International Airport following a deadly attack by suspected jihadists that left at least 13 people dead and prompted heightened security measures around the facility.
Gunmen launched an assault near the airport’s security checkpoint early Thursday, triggering a prolonged gun battle with security forces that spread into surrounding neighbourhoods.
According to Niger’s defence ministry, 11 soldiers and two civilians were killed in the attack, while security forces killed 22 attackers during the operation.
The assault was claimed by Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), marking the second attack on the strategic airport this year. In January, the facility was also targeted in an attack claimed by the Islamic State in the Sahel.
Despite temporary disruptions that led to flight delays and diversions, airport authorities said normal operations had resumed by Friday under reinforced security.
“Everything has resumed normally,” an airport source said, noting that security had been significantly strengthened.
An airline employee also confirmed that flights had resumed, adding that aircraft from two airlines landed after security forces regained control of the area.
Authorities said the attackers were pushed into nearby communities, where residents assisted security personnel in tracking down suspects. About 20 people were subsequently arrested.
The government has since intensified security checks across Niamey and deployed additional personnel around key installations.
Niger, led by military ruler Abdourahamane Tiani since the 2023 coup, continues to battle insurgencies linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State despite increased military operations and support from new international partners.
The airport remains a strategic site, having been used to store a large shipment of concentrated uranium awaiting export earlier this year. The status of that cargo remains unclear.
