In a significant development, the military regime that emerged from a coup d’état in Niger has decided to reopen its airspace on September 4th, 2023. This decision comes after nearly a month of airspace closure, which had been in effect since August 6th. The official announcement was made by the Nigerien state news agency (ANP).
Previously, the land and air borders of Niger with its five neighboring countries had been reopened on August 2, following their closure in the wake of the coup d’état that took place on July 26th. This coup d’état had resulted in the overthrow of the elected president, Mohamed Bazoum.
However, the airspace was once again completely shut down on August 6, citing concerns about a potential intervention from neighboring countries. This move was prompted by the perceived threat as several West African nations opposing the coup had contemplated the use of force to reinstate President Bazoum.