The Confederation of Sahel States has condemned an attempted military mutiny in Niger, describing the unrest as a threat to the country’s institutions, security and stability.
In a statement issued on Saturday evening, the regional bloc said a group of soldiers had targeted Air Base 101 and several sensitive sites in the capital, Niamey, during the night of August 28–29.
The confederation, comprising Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, praised loyal security forces for containing the uprising and restoring government control.
“The confederation commends the vigilance, courage and professionalism demonstrated by the loyal republican forces, which succeeded in containing the mutiny, thwarting its plans and bringing the situation under control,” the statement said.
The bloc described the attempted uprising as a betrayal of Niger’s state institutions and reaffirmed its “full and unwavering support” for the country’s authorities.
It also praised Nigerien defence and security personnel for remaining loyal to their duties and helping restore order following the overnight violence.
The confederation said the incident would not undermine the unity of its three member states or weaken their shared commitment to sovereignty, independent decision-making and collective defence.
It reiterated its determination to build a unified Sahel bloc based on solidarity, coordination and mutual security, while rejecting any effort to weaken its institutions or sow divisions among its members.
The alliance also urged people in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to remain vigilant against disinformation, false reports and rhetoric intended to provoke unrest or undermine trust in state institutions.
“The security and stability of any member state are inseparable from the security and stability of the entire Sahel region,” the statement said, adding that the three countries would remain united against threats to their sovereignty.
Nigerien state television later broadcast footage showing dozens of detained soldiers accused of involvement in the mutiny. Authorities said security forces had regained control of Air Base 101 and other strategic locations in Niamey.