The United States has ordered the departure of non-essential staff and family members from its embassy in Niamey, Niger, citing worsening security conditions following a recent militant attack near the capital’s international airport.
In a travel advisory issued on Friday, the U.S. Department of State warned Americans against travelling to Niger due to the risks of crime, civil unrest, terrorism, kidnapping, and limited healthcare services. The advisory said the U.S. government is no longer able to provide routine or emergency assistance to citizens outside Niamey because of safety concerns.
According to the guidance, a state of emergency and movement restrictions remain in force across large parts of the country. Foreign travellers outside the capital are required to move with military escorts, while areas under emergency measures are considered restricted and subject to sudden changes.
U.S. government personnel in Niger have been directed to travel only in armored vehicles, comply with curfews, and avoid restaurants and open-air markets. American citizens were advised to take similar precautions.
The evacuation order follows an overnight attack on Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey between January 29 and 30. The Islamic State’s media arm, Amaq News Agency, claimed responsibility, saying fighters of the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) carried out a coordinated assault on Air Base 101 located within the airport complex, causing significant damage. Nigerien authorities have yet to release official casualty figures.
Security sources said the attackers, riding motorcycles, targeted military facilities co-located with the civilian airport, including drone platforms and air defense systems. Nigerien Defence and Security Forces, supported by Russian African Corps personnel, reportedly repelled the attack, neutralizing and arresting several assailants. Airport operations later resumed.
