Mutinous soldiers attempted coup in Niger

Mutinying soldiers launched a coup attempt in Niger on Saturday, attacking a major military base at Niamey’s international airport, advancing on the presidential palace and briefly seizing the national broadcaster, according to the Financial Times.

The Nigerien government confirmed an insurrection had been attempted, while a source close to the military regime said young officers disgruntled with President Abdourahamane Tchiani’s leadership had taken over state television and airport drones before being pushed back from the palace. A foreign diplomat in Niamey said the government appeared to be regaining control downtown, though the attempt seemed to be faltering. Defence Minister Salifou Modi confirmed mutineers had fired on sensitive sites and attempted to confine other soldiers to barracks, but said security forces had “gradually” regained control.

Niger has been under military rule since Tchiani ousted elected President Mohamed Bazoum in a 2023 coup, promising to combat growing jihadist threats from al-Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates. Analysts including Andrew Lebovich and Paul Melly cited mounting frustration among officers over worsening battlefield losses and geopolitical tensions.

Experts say this coup attempt appears more organized than recent unrest in neighboring juntas Mali and Burkina Faso, warning it could further destabilize regional counterterrorism efforts.