One week after the attack on Niamey International Airport in Niger, significant updates have emerged regarding the incident. The attack was claimed by the Islamic State in the Sahel (EIS), which has provided further details about the events surrounding this security breach.
Attack Overview
The assault on Niamey International Airport took place on February 2, 2026. Following this incident, Colonel Major Abdourahmane Amadou, the Minister of Transport, visited the site to assess security measures.
Inspection of Security Measures
During his visit, Amadou was accompanied by senior officials, including the head of the gendarmerie, the police director general, and the director of civil aviation. They conducted a thorough inspection of the airport’s surveillance systems.
- Airport Name: Diori-Hamani International Airport
- Minister of Transport: Colonel Major Abdourahmane Amadou
- Surveillance System: Sixty camera angles monitoring both inside and outside
Details from the Islamic State
The EIS claimed that it had monitored the airport for several weeks to identify security weaknesses. They reported discovering a vulnerability at an eastern gate, which a terrorist climbed to open from the inside.
Prior to the attack, the EIS released footage showing their earlier operations, targeting military assets such as helicopters and small aircraft. In the video, they also included footage of their actions within the civilian section of the airport.
Implications for Security in Niger
This incident has raised serious concerns about airport security in Niger and the presence of radical groups in the region. The assessment of security protocols is critical at this juncture to prevent future attacks and ensure the safety of travelers.
The Nigerien authorities are now under pressure to enhance their security apparatus and review existing measures at key infrastructures like airports. The attack serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats posed by extremist groups in the Sahel region.
