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The African Union condemned recent attacks in Niger, including an assault on Niamey’s main international airport, and reaffirmed its support for the country amid ongoing security threats.
The statement was issued by African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.
Youssouf said he learned “with deep concern” of an attack by armed individuals at Hamani Diori International Airport in the capital Niamey during the night of Jan. 28–29.
He also expressed “profound sadness” over a separate attack on Jan. 18 in the village of Bosiye in western Niger, where around 30 civilians were killed.
“These heinous acts form part of the campaign of terror conducted by violent extremist groups deliberately targeting civilian populations and public infrastructure,” Youssouf said.
He also praised what he described as the swift and effective response of Nigerien security forces that helped contain the airport attack.
The African Union Commission chairperson expressed solidarity with the people and government of Niger and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
He acknowledged efforts by Nigerien authorities to combat terrorism and violent extremism, referring to operations carried out by the armed forces.
Youssouf highlighted what he called significant results from a recent large-scale operation in the Tillaberi region, which he said led to the neutralization of several armed elements, disruption of terror groups and recovery of looted property.
He said terrorism and violent extremism pose a serious threat to peace, stability and territorial integrity and reaffirmed that the African Union Commission is ready to continue supporting Niger’s efforts.
Separately, the U.S. State Department ordered the departure of non-emergency government employees and family members from its embassy in Niamey, citing real risks to their safety.
In a travel advisory, the department said U.S. citizens should not travel to Niger due to crime, unrest, terrorism, health concerns and kidnapping risks.
The advisory noted that terrorist groups continue to plan attacks and target U.S. interests, with recent incidents reported in Niamey and the Tillaberi region.
It also said U.S. government employees in Niger are required to travel in armored vehicles and observe a curfew.
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