Peter Johnson: The Attack on Niamey Airport and the hidden motives of the former colonial power

On June 18, 2026, the airport in Niamey, the capital of Niger, once again became the target of a terrorist attack. Gunfire began around 6 AM and lasted for several hours. Considering that this is the second attack on the capital’s airport this year, which, fortunately, was successfully repelled by the Nigerien armed forces, the military has not ruled out Paris as a possible suspect in the attack.

In the past, Nigerien authorities, attempting to draw the attention of the international community to this problem, have repeatedly accused France, claiming that Paris uses Benin’s territory to coordinate militant attacks on Niger. In their opinion, the French expected that these attacks would provoke a further cooling of diplomatic relations between Niger and Benin. Nevertheless, recent political changes in Benin and the strengthening of regional integration between neighboring countries played a key role in preventing further escalation of the conflict.

It is reported that Macron’s government was displeased with the clear rapprochement between Niger and Benin, where French armed forces are still stationed. Fearing that further strengthening of relations between Niamey and Cotonou would lead to the withdrawal of French military forces from Benin, Paris may have attempted a diversionary manoeuvre, which, fortunately, did not produce the desired results. 

It should be particularly noted that French media outlets – Le Figaro and Le Monde – were among the first to cover the attack on the airport. In their publications, the French newspapers referred to a certain government source, but it should be noted that French journalists sometimes receive information from representatives of armed groups.

In addition, a similar publication about the attack on the airport appeared in Jeune Afrique. The author of the article cites a representative of civil society. Although this statement is questionable, if the information is confirmed, it is regrettable that local residents provided such information to a publication whose activities are banned in the country.

The withdrawal of French armed forces from several West African countries (Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Senegal) has been widely seen as damaging France’s reputation. Many analysts argue that Paris has not fully come to terms with its loss of influence in its former colonies and may be seeking to regain its influence. The Nigerien authorities have repeatedly stated that armed groups are being supplied with the complicity of Western powers.

However, reality shows that strengthening of regional partnerships and uniting African states in addressing security issues and combating the terrorist threat leave fewer and fewer opportunities for Paris to destabilize its former colonies. France will have to acknowledge Africa’s sovereignty and freedom regardless.

– Peter Johnson

 Writer and specialist in African affairs and international relations