Sahel confederation condemns Niamey airport, air base attack, vows united response

By: Zagazola Makama 

The Confederation of Sahel States (AES) has strongly condemned what it described as a “barbaric and cowardly” attack carried out in Niamey, Niger, on the night of Jan. 28–29, targeting the Diori Hamani International Airport and the country’s Air Base 101.

In a communiqué issued by the President of the Confederation in Ouagadougou, the AES said the assault was a “premeditated, coordinated and indiscriminate” operation aimed at both strategic military infrastructure and civilian installations.

The statement noted that the attack gravely endangered innocent civilians and property used for civil purposes, stressing that such actions threatened not only Niger but the collective security and stability of the entire Sahel region.

“The Confederation of Sahel States condemns in the strongest terms these cowardly, barbaric and indiscriminate acts against not only a member state, but also against regional stability and the shared efforts of Sahelian peoples toward peace and development,” the communiqué said.

According to the AES, the violence should not be seen as an isolated incident but as part of a broader strategy of destabilisation sustained by complex support networks.

It alleged that the attackers benefitted from direct or indirect backing, including from foreign state sponsors, whose moral and political responsibility, the body said, was “fully engaged.”

The Confederation warned against any form of complacency, manipulation or support for such criminal enterprises.

“The perpetrators of these acts, as well as all those who finance, arm, provide intelligence to, or offer them political support, will be held accountable,” the statement said.

It reaffirmed that member states of the AES remain united, vigilant and firmly committed to a coordinated and sovereign fight against terrorism and all its supporters.

The Confederation also expressed full solidarity with the people and government of Niger and its defence and security forces, praising their courage and commitment to protecting the population.

“Nothing will weaken the determination of Sahelian peoples to defend their sovereignty, protect their citizens and build a future founded on peace, justice and genuine independence,” the communiqué added.

The statement was signed in Ouagadougou on Jan. 31.