Niger

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Our information suggests terrorists are planning attacks against Westerners in Niger, including in Niamey.

Terrorists may target places visited by foreigners, including:

• hotels
• cafes
• restaurants

Several attacks have occurred in Niger in recent years. More attacks are likely.

Some attacks target Westerners who are taking part in activities opposed by militant groups.

Other attacks are random, or target places where crowds gather.

Boko Haram is a Nigeria-based militant group. Since early 2015, they have launched attacks in the Diffa region and 100s have died. More attacks are likely in the Diffa region and other places along Niger’s border with Nigeria.

Since 2013, there have been attacks on government sites by militant groups opposed to Niger’s intervention in Mali. 

Attacks are focused in:

• northern parts of Tillaberi region
• western parts of Tahoua and Agadez regions

In October 2016, an attack on a refugee camp in Tassalit, Tahoua region killed more than 20 security personnel.

Attacks along Niger’s borders with Mali, Algeria and Libya are likely. Nearby areas are dangerous too.

If you decide to travel to Niger despite our advice:

• monitor the media and other sources for threats
• avoid hotels, cafes and restaurants visited by foreigners and other possible targets
• have an exit plan if you need to visit an area that’s a possible target
• report suspicious activity or items to police
• take official warnings seriously

If there’s a terrorist attack:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• leave the area as soon as it’s safe
• avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks

Be alert to threats, especially near:

• government buildings
• security facilities
• international organisations
• diplomatic buildings
• police stations

More information:

Kidnapping

Kidnapping is a risk across Niger, especially outside Niamey. Westerners are particularly at risk.

Kidnappers may take foreign workers, tourists and expats from their:

• homes
• vehicles
• workplaces

Kidnappers may execute hostages.

Militant groups that are active in Niger and neighbouring countries include:

• Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM)
• al-Murabitun

The terrorist group Boko Haram often enters Niger, particularly in the south-eastern Diffa region.

In 2017, the US Embassy and UK Foreign Office warned that terrorist groups in Diffa may kidnap Westerners and other international humanitarian workers.

Recent kidnappings include:

• September 2018 — an Italian citizen in Makolondi, 125km south-west of Niamey
• October 2016 — a US citizen working with an NGO in Abalat, Tahoua region

Kidnapping is an ongoing threat. This is especially true for foreigners:

• working in remote areas
• going to cultural festivals in north and west Africa

The Australian Government’s longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

If you travel to Niger despite our advice:

• get professional security advice
• arrange suitable security measures

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government