The U.S. Embassy advises all U.S. citizens to remain vigilant and maintain awareness of your surroundings during the month of Ramadan, observed in Niger from mid-June to mid-July. Security measures in Niger remain heightened due to threats posed by extremist groups. U.S. citizens are encouraged to review the Travel Warning for Niger, and to remain alert for potentially dangerous situations. U.S. citizens should avoid places of worship, government facilities and locations frequented by foreigners, including shops, restaurants, and any location where large crowds may gather. Even demonstrations or events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.
U.S. citizens should monitor local events, report suspicious activity to the local police, and take appropriate steps to bolster their own security. Since the commencement of Ramadan, increasing numbers of crimes of opportunity have occurred throughout Niamey, sometimes conducted in broad daylight in populated areas such as Gadafawa circle. Remain aware and travel with a friend if possible. Avoid carrying large sums of money or displaying jewelry. Traffic accidents frequently increase in the evening after 7 p.m. as many rush home to end their fast.
For further information:
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information for Niger.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Contact the U.S. Embassy in Niamey, located on the Rue des Ambassades, Niamey, Niger, at +227-20-72-26-6, Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +227-99-49-90-66.
- Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
