Niger’s military government has accused France of orchestrating and inciting a mutiny by soldiers who attacked a military airbase, the airport and the presidential complex in the capital, Niamey.
The attack took place on August 29, 2026, posing the latest threat to the government of Abdourahamane Tiani, who came to power following the 2023 military coup. Explosions and gunfire were reported at a military airbase, but Nigerien forces, backed by Russian paramilitary personnel, regained control of the facility the following day.
According to a statement read on national television on Friday, Niger’s Council of Ministers concluded that the attack was organised by a “vast network of accomplices” allegedly led by France. The government said it had compiled substantial evidence concerning the incident and reserved the right to take the matter before international courts.
The mutiny has also exposed tensions within Niger’s armed forces, which have suffered repeated battlefield losses while fighting a persistent jihadist insurgency. The junta has previously accused France and other West African countries of contributing to unrest in Niamey, although the government has not publicly provided evidence for those earlier allegations.
The latest accusation further highlights the deteriorating relationship between Niger and France and the junta’s growing security relationship with Russia. According to the report, Russian Africa Corps forces supported Nigerien troops in restoring control of the military airbase.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
