Benin and Côte d’Ivoire Deny Involvement in Attack Near Niamey Airport

The Beninese and Ivorian governments have strongly rejected accusations by Niger’s transitional leader, President Abdourahamane Tiani, alleging their involvement in a recent attack on a military base near Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey.

President Tiani made the allegations during a visit to the attack site on Thursday, speaking on state television. He named Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, and French President Emmanuel Macron as alleged sponsors of the attack, which occurred on the night of January 28-29.

In response, Ivorian authorities summoned Niger’s ambassador to Abidjan on Friday, while Benin firmly denied any involvement in the incident at the Niamey airport.

Benin’s government spokesperson, Wilfried Houngbédji, described the accusations as unfounded and motivated by jealousy. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening security, stating: “We will not take any threat lightly. But we will not waste time on people whose sole purpose is to prevent us from moving forward.”

For the Ivorian government, the remarks were described as contrary to diplomatic protocol and damaging to the honour of President Alassane Ouattara and the Ivorian people. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its “deep indignation” and condemned the comments.

The government reiterated its commitment to dialogue and peace and delivered a formal note of protest to the Nigerien diplomat, while reserving the right to take all necessary action.

Since the July 2023 coup that brought Niger’s military to power, President Tiani has repeatedly accused Benin of hosting foreign military bases and training armed groups allegedly seeking to destabilize Niger. Benin has consistently denied the claims.

The latest accusations, made in the aftermath of the attack, have triggered renewed reactions across the sub-region. Nigerien security forces said they repelled the assault, neutralized several attackers, arrested others, and reported injuries among some soldiers.