Nigeria Closes Airspace Indefinitely Amid Regional Bloc’s Warning

Nigeria’s military junta has taken a drastic measure by indefinitely shutting down the country’s airspace until further notice after a regional bloc’s warning of possible forceful intervention if President Mohamed Bazoum is not reinstated.

The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), comprising 15 West African countries, including Nigeria, Senegal, Togo, and Ghana, has expressed its concern over the political situation in Niger. Following a crisis meeting on August 4, Ecowas military chiefs announced their detailed plan for potential military action if Bazoum was not reinstated by 11 p.m. on August 6.

Despite diplomatic efforts, Niger’s coup leaders have not shown any signs of relinquishing power, and on Sunday, their supporters rallied defiantly in the capital city of Niamey. Meanwhile, Flightradar24 reported no aircraft currently in Niger’s skies due to the airspace closure.