Govt Asks Indians To Leave Military Coup-Hit Niger As Soon As Possible

New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued an urgent advisory for Indian nationals residing in Niger.

The message is — those whose presence is not essential in the violence-hit Niger should leave the African country as soon as possible.

MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi told mediapersons on Friday that the Indian government is closely monitoring the situation in Niger and also asked the people to reconsider their plans if they are travelling to Niamey, the capital city.

“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 normalizes,” MEA advised.

“All those Indian nationals who have not registered with the Indian embassy in Niamey (Niger capital) are strongly advised to do so expeditiously. Indian nationals can reach emergency contact in the embassy of India in Niamey: 22799759975,” MEA added.

Niger is in the midst of a political upheaval after the democratically-elected President was ousted by a military coup two weeks ago.

Bagchi informed that about 250 Indians are stuck in Niger at the moment.

“MEA is requesting those who have not registered their names to the Indian embassy to register themselves. Indian Embassy in Niamey is in touch with the Indian communities and we have been told that they are safe,” said Bagchi.