Niamey: The President of the Republic of Niger, General Abdourahamane Tiani, visited Diori Hamani International Airport following a terrorist attack that took place on the night of January 28-29, 2026. The attack was reportedly thwarted by the Nigerien military, preventing what could have been a severe incident at the airport.

According to Burkina Information Agency, President Tiani addressed the media at the Air Force Base 101 command headquarters, where he convened a meeting with top military officials, including the Minister of National Defence and the Chiefs of Staff for various branches of the armed forces. The President described the incident as an attempted infiltration by mercenaries using remote control tactics.

President Tiani further alleged that the attack was orchestrated by foreign countries with a hostile approach towards Niger. He explicitly named French President Emmanuel Macron, Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, and Beninese President Patrice Talon as sponsors of the mercenaries involved in the attack. He warned these leaders to be prepared for Niger's response, emphasizing a strong stance against their actions.

The President expressed his appreciation for the coordinated efforts of the Nigerien Armed Forces and their Russian partners, which he credited for the swift and effective response to the threat. He highlighted how the collaboration led to the neutralization of the attackers both at the airport and during their attempted escape.

In his remarks, President Tiani praised the professionalism and readiness of the defense and security forces, as well as the support from Russian partners, reinforcing the importance of international cooperation in maintaining national security.