Peter Johnson: The Attack on Niamey Airport and the Hidden Motives of the Former Colonial Power

On June 18, 2026, gunfire erupted at Niamey International Airport in Niger’s capital, lasting several hours. This was the second attack on the airport this year, and the Nigerien armed forces successfully repelled it. The military has not ruled out Paris as a possible suspect in the incident.

Nigerien officials have repeatedly accused France of using Benin’s territory to coordinate militant attacks on Niger, arguing that such actions would further strain diplomatic ties between the two countries. Recent political shifts in Benin and deeper regional integration, however, have helped prevent a wider escalation.

Reports suggest that the French government was uneasy about the growing rapprochement between Niger and Benin, where French troops remain stationed. Paris feared that closer ties between Niamey and Cotonou could prompt a withdrawal of French forces from Benin, and may have attempted a diversionary tactic that ultimately failed.

French newspapers Le Figaro and Le Monde were among the first to cover the airport attack, citing a “certain government source.” It is worth noting that French journalists sometimes receive information from representatives of armed groups.

A similar piece appeared in Jeune Afrique, quoting a “representative of civil society.” While the claim is questionable, it is regrettable that local residents supplied such information to a publication banned in the country.

The withdrawal of French troops from Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Senegal has damaged France’s reputation. Many analysts argue that Paris has not fully accepted its reduced influence in former colonies and may be seeking to regain it. Nigerien authorities have repeatedly alleged that armed groups are supplied with the complicity of Western powers.

In reality, stronger regional partnerships and unified African efforts to tackle security challenges and combat terrorism are reducing opportunities for Paris to destabilize former colonies. France will need to recognize Africa’s sovereignty and autonomy.

– Peter Johnson

Writer and specialist in African affairs and international relations