In an address broadcast on national television on Friday, February 13, the head of the Nigerien junta, Abdourahamane Tiani, reiterated his serious accusations against France. Despite the Islamic State in the Sahel (ISS) claiming responsibility for the attack on Niamey airport (January 29), the general maintains that Paris was behind the operation.

Accusations of destabilization

For the leader of the CNSP, this attack is not an isolated terrorist act but is part of a "destabilization agenda" orchestrated by Emmanuel Macron.

1. The targets: Tiani claims that the objective was to annihilate Niger's air capabilities.
2. The extension of the plan: According to him, seven other simultaneous attacks were planned in the Tillabéri region, but were thwarted.
3. The "sponsors": Besides France, the general points the finger at Ivory Coast and Benin, describing them as supporters of armed groups, accusations firmly rejected by the countries concerned.

Security and new allies

While acknowledging a "flaw" in the airport's security arrangements, General Tiani praised his troops' response. He specifically highlighted the role of Russian instructors , now strategic partners of Niamey, in thwarting the raid.

For its part, the French general staff denounces an "information war" , refuting any intention of military intervention or support for terrorism, recalling its past commitment against jihadists in the Sahel.

The battle for uranium: A divorce finalized

The conflict is also shifting to the economic and sovereignty arenas. Following the nationalization of Somaïr (formerly a subsidiary of the French group Orano), tensions are crystallizing around uranium stockpiles:

Subject	Position of Niger (Tiani)
Old stock	Ready to return to France approximately 100 tonnes corresponding to its share before the coup.
Current production	Everything produced since the takeover remains the exclusive property of Niger.
Export	Approximately 1,000 tonnes of "yellowcake" are currently stuck at Niamey airport.

In summary: Between accusations of military conspiracy and mining disputes, the break between Niamey and Paris now seems total and irreversible under the Tiani era.