African Union condemns deadly Niamey airport attack, pledges support to Niger

The African Union has condemned the terrorist attack on the Diori Hamani International Airport and an adjacent military base in Niamey, Niger.

The assault occurred on the morning of Thursday, June 18, and was later claimed by the al-Qaeda-affiliated Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM).

The attack targeted both civilian and military installations, raising renewed concerns over worsening security conditions in the Sahel region.

In a statement, the AU said the coordinated strike resulted in 11 soldiers, two civilians, and 22 attackers being killed during the exchange.

Security forces were deployed swiftly to repel the assault and secure the airport and surrounding facilities.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, described the incident as unacceptable and extended condolences to affected families.

“The Chairperson extends his sincere condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the authorities and people of Niger,” the statement read in part.

He further reaffirmed the continental body’s solidarity with Niger in its counterterrorism efforts.

“The African Union reaffirms its solidarity with the Republic of Niger in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism,” it added.

The AU also praised the rapid response of Nigerien security forces, noting that their intervention helped prevent further damage and restore control of the affected facilities.