Security Message for U.S. Citizens Update on Restricted Movement Outside Niamey’s City Limits (February 7, 2013)

U.S. Embassy Niamey, Niger

Security Message for U.S. Citizens

Update on Restricted Movement Outside Niamey’s City Limits

February 7, 2013

 This Security Message is issued to provide U.S. citizens in Niger with a security update on restricted travel in Niger, and inform them of a curfew implemented at the U.S. Embassy.

 As of February 6, anyone, i.e., U.S. citizens, foreigners and host country nationals alike, who wishes to travel beyond the Niamey’s city limits (péage), must carry with them  car registration and personal identification documents, such as a passport or Nigerien identification card. 

 The Nigerien authorities have stated they will not restrict or permit travel based on nationality, but they do reserve the right to restrict travel based on the intended destination and its current security climate.  If you wish to travel, please remember the security climate can change and the Nigerien authorities may decide to take additional actions for your safety. 

 Due to the fluid security situation in Niger, the U.S. Embassy has imposed a curfew on official Embassy personnel from midnight until 6:00 a.m. The U.S. Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens remain vigilant, review their personal security plans, and take appropriate steps to increase their personal security. 

 You can get Embassy updates by checking the website of the U.S. Embassy in Niamey.  You can also get global updates at the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website where you can find the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information.  Follow us onTwitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well, or you can download our free Smart Traveler App, available through iTunes and the Android marketplace, to have travel information at your fingertips.  If you don't have internet access, current information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States, or for callers from other countries, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).  

 If you are going to live in or travel to Niger, please take the time to tell us about your trip by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program- STEP.  If you enroll, we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.  It will also help your friends and family get in touch with you in an emergency.  You should remember to keep all of your information in STEP up to date.  It is important during enrollment or updating of information to include your current phone number and current email address where you can be reached in case of an emergency.

 The U.S. Embassy in Niamey is located on Rue des Ambassades, tel. (+227) 20-72-26-61.  The Embassy fax numbers are (+227) 20-73-31-67 and (+227) 20-72-31-46. 

 The after-hours emergency number is tel. (+227) 20-72-31-41.  Be ready to first state your name, phone number, and the reason you are calling.