The Indian government issued an advisory wherein it asked its nationals living in Niger to leave the country as soon as possible on August 11, 2023.
Ministry of External Affairs has issued an advisory asking Indian nationals whose presence is not essential in Niger to leave the country, following the coup in the African nation.
On 26 July, members of the presidential guard announced on national television that they had ousted President Bazoum. A few days later, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, who served as head of the presidential guard, took over as leader of Niger’s new military junta.
The coup has drawn strong opposition from regional powers. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a coalition of West African nations, has called on the junta leaders to restore democratic governance, even threatening the use of force.
However, the deadline passed without action given that other military-led regimes in the region, like Mali and Burkina Faso, threatened to back Niger’s military junta in battle. The already complicated situation has been further exacerbated by domestic unrest, with various groups mobilising against the coup leaders in Niger.
Security analysts warn that the disarray in Niger could allow groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State to expand their reach across West Africa’s Sahel region, where they have already killed thousands and forced millions to flee. It could also hobble economic development and democratic progress in one of the world’s poorest areas.
“Government of India is closely monitoring ongoing developments in Niger. In light of the prevailing situation, Indian nationals whose presence is not essential are advised to leave the country as soon as possible. They may bear in mind that airspace is currently closed. When departing through a land border, utmost precautions may be taken to ensure safety and security. Those who may be planning travel to Niger in the coming days are also similarly advised to reconsider their travel plans until the situation normalize,” said MEA.