Thousands gathered in Niamey following the Niger mutiny, showing support for the country’s military authorities and leader General Abdourahamane Tiani.
The demonstration brought together several thousand people, including supporters of the military government and government officials, at Place de la Concertation.
Some demonstrators carried Russian flags and chanted slogans against foreign interference as they expressed support for the authorities.
The rally came after an attempted military uprising triggered fighting around sensitive locations in the capital.
Niger mutiny brings thousands onto Niamey streets
The unrest erupted over the weekend and involved fighting around strategic sites in Niamey.
Forces loyal to the authorities eventually brought the situation under control. The events highlighted internal tensions at a time when Niger continues to face a major security challenge from armed groups operating across the Sahel.
Following the failed uprising, thousands of people gathered in the capital to demonstrate their backing for the authorities.
Business Minister Abdoulaye Seydou told the crowd that Nigeriens would show the world that the country remained united and determined following the unrest.
Authorities and official media also indicated that rallies would take place in other major cities.
Niger authorities allege foreign involvement
General Amadou Ibro, Tiani’s personal chief of staff, claimed that the people behind the uprising had sponsors outside Niger.
State television also accused France, Niger’s former colonial power, of involvement in the attempted uprising. However, authorities have not publicly presented evidence establishing French responsibility.
Relations between Niamey and Paris have deteriorated sharply since the military takeover in 2023.
Niger has since reduced its reliance on traditional Western security partners while building closer relations with Russia.
Niger deepens security ties with Russia
Russia has emerged as an increasingly important security partner for Niger.
Moscow’s Africa Corps has developed a presence in the country as Nigerien forces continue operations against armed groups in the Sahel.
Niger has also strengthened cooperation with neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso. All three countries have military-led governments and have moved away from France while developing closer ties with Russia.
The three states cooperate through the Alliance of Sahel States as they seek greater coordination on security, diplomacy and regional affairs.
The Niger mutiny represents one of the most significant internal challenges to the country’s military authorities since Tiani took power in 2023.
Despite the unrest, Wednesday’s demonstration showed that the authorities retain visible support among sections of the population in Niamey.