Following gunfire and explosions in Niamey, the Federal Government of Nigeria expressed deep concern on Sunday, August 30, 2026, over the political and security situation in the Republic of Niger. Abuja urged Nigerien authorities and citizens to pursue dialogue and restore constitutional order without resorting to military force.
Security Incidents and the Attempted Coup in Niamey
The security situation in Niger escalated over the weekend following an attempted coup in the capital city of Niamey. Mutinous soldiers clashed with security forces near sensitive locations, including the presidential palace and a military base situated at the international airport, specifically targeting the Diori Hamani International Airport. During the unrest, gunfire and explosions rattled the city, and the state broadcaster, Tele Sahel, was briefly forced off the air.
According to the ruling military junta, known as the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP), the mutiny was a targeted destabilization plot aimed at overthrowing the country’s leader, Abdourahamane Tchiani. The junta confirmed that personnel within the military forces attempted to seize power but were ultimately repelled by the Nigerien security forces, with assistance from Africa Corps. Authorities reported that the situation had been contained and that the government was back in control.
Nigeria Responds with Warnings Against Military Force
In response to the violence, the Federal Government of Nigeria issued a formal statement through Oluwafemi Adeniyi, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja. Citing deep historical, cultural, and fraternal bonds between the two neighbouring nations, the statement emphasized that peace and stability in Niger directly affect Nigeria, the sub-region, and the wider Sahel region.
“The Government of Nigeria views with deep concern the current political and security situation in the Republic of Niger,”
Oluwafemi Adeniyi, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
The Federal Government further noted that as a neighbour with which it shares close historical, fraternal and cultural bonds, the Federal Government of Nigeria is keenly desirous to see that peace, security, democracy and development reign supreme in the country.
In this regard, the ministry stressed that a peaceful, secure and stable situation in Niger will impact positively and directly on Nigeria, the sub-region and the Sahel.
While acknowledging the gravity of the political crisis, Abuja explicitly cautioned against utilizing military interventions to settle internal political disagreements. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned that any resort to the use of force to settle political differences detracts from this objective,
noting that such an approach could undermine efforts to achieve peace and stability.
Calls for Inclusive Dialogue and Constitutional Order
Rather than military escalation, the Nigerian government urged all stakeholders in Niger to prioritize cooperation and open communication.
“It therefore urges the government and people of Niger to work together towards an inclusive and participatory return to stability and constitutional order in the interest of the country, regional peace and stability.”
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
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