Continued Vigilance Recommended (January 15, 2013)

U.S. Embassy Niamey, Niger

Security Message for U.S. Citizens – Continued Vigilance Recommended

January 15, 2013

 The U.S. Embassy in Niger is issuing this security message to remind U.S. citizens of our warning against travel to the regions of Niger bordering Mali.  Due to the ongoing military conflict and the continued threat of terrorist activity in Niger, U.S. citizens are encouraged to review their personal security plans, exercise caution, remain vigilant, maintain situational awareness at all times, and take appropriate security precautions to ensure their personal security.

On January 11, the French military began assisting the Malian military in efforts to repel terrorist forces in Mali.  The Mali-Niger border is porous and there are regular reports of AQIM and other rebels crossing into Niger.  The Government of Niger has increased its security forces in the region but the situation remains unstable and travel there is not advised.  Terrorist groups have stepped up their rhetoric calling for additional attacks or kidnapping attempts on Westerners, particularly those linked to support for the international military intervention.

The U.S. Embassy in Niamey continues to restrict the travel of U.S. government employees and official visitors in the areas north of Niamey.

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 on Twitter 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.