Africa-Press. Authorities in Niger have announced a large-scale evacuation of residents living near Niamey International Airport as part of security measures aimed at protecting air traffic and the country’s strategic infrastructure amid rising threats and armed attacks.
The evacuation is set to begin at the end of this month and will affect four residential complexes close to the airport, impacting approximately 26,000 people, according to official estimates.
Authorities assert that the occupation of these lands was illegal, while many residents dispute this claim, emphasizing that they acquired the land legally and invested significant amounts in building their homes.
One affected resident stated that families need a longer grace period before the decision is implemented, calling for fair compensation that reflects the value of their properties and investments, especially with the school year beginning and Eid al-Adha approaching.
The governor of the capital, Niamey, recently visited the area, while General Assouman Abdu Harouna confirmed that the operation is an “urgent measure” to ensure the safety of residents and air travel, noting that the state will provide compensation for those affected.
This move follows an attack on Air Base 101 near Niamey less than four months ago, claimed by a terrorist organization. Nigerien authorities have imposed new restrictions on the movement of heavy trucks and vehicles transporting flammable materials within the capital, prohibiting their passage in sensitive areas and near major institutions, except for public transport vehicles.
