NIAMEY, Niger (AP) — There were loud explosions and heavy gunfire overnight into Thursday morning near the main airport in Niger’s capital, Niamey, residents said, leading to fears of a likely attack by armed groups in the conflict-hit country.

NIAMEY, Jan 29 (Reuters) - Niger's military ruler Abdourahamane Tiani on Thursday blamed French, Benin and Ivory Coast presidents for sponsoring the attack on Niamey international airport, an accusation he made without offering any evidence.

Heavy clashes at the headquarters of the Sahel’s joint strike force leave Niamey on edge, with diverted flights and reports of drone-defence activity highlighting the region’s fragile stability.

The victims were identified as Mohammed Kudu, 42, and Manko Ibrahim, 41, both indigenes of Poto who were engaged in farming activities at the time of the attack.

Niger's state broadcaster said armed men attacked a Nigerien Air Force base in the capital city overnight into Thursday morning, resulting in loud explosions and heavy gunfire

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has sworn in four new High Court judges and three Khadis, urging them to uphold fairness and justice.

Troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded major operational successes against Boko Haram splinter groups and armed bandits in Niger