Nigerien authorities say 11 security personnel and two civilians were killed in this morning’s attack on Diori Hamani International Airport and the adjacent military facility in the capital, Niamey. Officials also reported that 22 attackers were killed, with weapons and equipment recovered during the operation.

According to a statement broadcast by state television, the attackers arrived in two taxi cabs, with some wearing suicide explosive belts, before launching the assault on both the civilian airport and the nearby military section.

Local sources had earlier reported heavy fighting around the airport beginning at approximately 6:00 a.m. local time.

An airport employee living near Diori Hamani International Airport said he was driving to work when he reached the airport roundabout, heard intense gunfire, observed a heavy military deployment, and decided to turn back home for safety.

Another resident living close to the airport also confirmed hearing sustained gunfire and explosions during the early morning hours.

Later in the day, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), Al-Qaeda’s affiliate in the Sahel, claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement released by its media wing, Az-Zallaqa Foundation.

JNIM described the operation as a suicide attack targeting both Diori Hamani International Airport and the adjacent military facility in Niamey.

The group did not provide further details regarding government casualties, while Nigerien authorities have not yet commented on JNIM’s claim.