Niger's capital, Niamey, witnessed intense clashes on Saturday as elements of the armed forces engaged in a violent confrontation with the presidential guard. This unrest began in the early hours of the morning, marked by heavy gunfire and explosions, particularly around Base 101, which is adjacent to the international airport.

Reports indicate that the violence stemmed from an attempted incursion by insurgents from the Nigerien armed forces aiming to breach the presidential palace. A security source confirmed that the presidential guard successfully repelled the attackers, leading to ongoing exchanges of gunfire. An African diplomat in Niamey reported that, at present, the presidential guard remains loyal to General Abdourahamane Tiani, the head of the military junta that has governed Niger since a coup in July 2023.

The military has stated it is "gradually regaining control" following the hostage situation involving mutineers at a military base near the airport. In a public address, Defence Minister General Salifou Mody urged citizens to remain calm and continue their daily activities despite the chaos. The military's social media channels echoed this sentiment, calling for the public to avoid spreading unverified information regarding the situation.

Eyewitness accounts describe a harrowing scene, with one local resident noting, "There was heavy gunfire and explosions" at Base 101, corroborated by several others. The national television station, Tele Sahel, temporarily ceased broadcasting for over an hour, further heightening concerns among residents. Access to the presidential palace and national television was blocked by military personnel, as they sought to secure the area amidst the turmoil.

The gunfire reportedly began around 1:00 AM local time and persisted until daybreak, as captured in a video by a local journalist. Another resident reported hearing sporadic gunfire around 5:00 AM, indicating that the violence was not isolated to a single incident but rather a prolonged engagement.

This outbreak of violence occurs against a backdrop of ongoing jihadist threats in the region. Niger has struggled with jihadist violence for nearly a decade, with rival groups such as the Islamic State in the Sahel (EIS) and the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) vying for control. Earlier this year, Niamey airport was targeted twice by these groups, resulting in significant casualties.

The military junta, which has distanced itself from traditional Western allies in the fight against terrorism, has sought to forge closer ties with Russia. This shift in alliances comes as Niger, along with Burkina Faso and Mali, has withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

As the situation in Niamey continues to develop, the military's ability to maintain order and protect its leadership remains uncertain, with the potential for further unrest looming over the capital.