African Union Blasts Terror Attack on Niamey Airport, Vows Strong Support for Niger
The African Union Commission has strongly condemned the terrorist assault on the International Airport in Niamey, Niger Republic, describing the incident as a direct threat to peace and stability in the Sahel region.
In a statement released on June 18, 2026, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, expressed deep concern over the attack, which targeted the airport in Niamey on Thursday.
He extended condolences to the families of those killed and offered solidarity to the government and people of Niger Republic, while wishing a quick recovery for the injured.
“The Chairperson extends his sincere condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the authorities and people of Niger, and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured,” the statement read.
The AU chief also commended the rapid response of the Nigerien Defence and Security Forces, noting that their swift intervention helped repel the attackers and secure the airport premises.
“He commends the swift response of the Nigerien Defence and Security Forces, whose actions helped repel the attack and secure the airport facilities,” the statement added.
Youssouf reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to supporting Niger in its ongoing struggle against terrorism and violent extremism, which continue to destabilise parts of the Sahel region.
The continental body stressed that it remains firmly committed to promoting peace, security, and stability across Africa.
The attack on Niamey’s international airport adds to growing security concerns in the Sahel, where extremist groups have repeatedly targeted military, civilian, and strategic infrastructure despite ongoing counterterrorism efforts across the region.
