African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has condemned Thursday’s armed attack on Niamey’s international airport in Niger.
In a statement, the chairperson offered condolences to the families of the victims and to the authorities and people of Niger, and wished a swift recovery to the injured.
He commended the swift response of the Nigerien Defence and Security Forces, whose actions helped repel the attack and secure the airport.
The chairperson reaffirmed the AU’s solidarity with Niger in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism, and reiterated the Union’s commitment to supporting efforts to preserve peace, security and stability across the continent.
Gunmen attacked Niamey’s Diori Hamani Airport and nearby military sites, triggering explosions and sustained gunfire, according to media reports.
The attack killed 13 people – 11 defence and security personnel and two civilians – according to a statement from Niger’s Ministry of Defence.
MG/jn/APA