Niger Country Report
Niger is a landlocked country located on the coast of Africa, bordering Algeria and Libya to the north, Nigeria to the south, and Mali and Chad to the west and east. Although nearly 80 percent of the country overlaps with the Sahara desert, its economy is one of the poorest and least developed in the world, relying on subsistence agriculture, mineral extraction, and commodity exports. Despite recent achievements in the past decade to overcome the complex challenges facing the country, regional instability is at risk due to the spread of militant jihadism and military interference in political governance. Niger is located in the Sahel tri-border region and shares approximately 1,448 km (900 mi) of border with neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, where extremist jihadist activities continue to pose serious challenges to the region’s security situation.
Travel in several regions of Niger, including Tillabéri, Diffa, Agadez, and other remote areas, remains a serious challenge due to increased risks of armed robbery, terrorism, and kidnapping. Domestic travel can be very dangerous due to dangerous road conditions and the risk of highway robbery and car theft. These risks increase in border areas. In the capital city of Niamey, political and strike-related activists are likely to demonstrate with little warning. Organized crime syndicates continue to pose challenges to local law enforcement with entrenched black market syndicates, drug trafficking, robbery, residential and commercial burglary, human trafficking, and armed robbery. The presence of heavily armed security forces around particularly sensitive government areas has become a common sight in Niamey.
Last updated: August 14, 2023
Security
Despite decreasing capabilities and losing territory in recent years, Boko Haram continues to be a constant threat in southeastern Niger with sporadic attacks against military and civilian targets. The country has also faced a growing threat of terrorism in recent years from multinational groups operating throughout the Sahel region, with sporadic attacks in the southwest near the porous borders with Mali and Burkina Faso. Both violent and petty crimes occur relatively frequently across the country, and foreign nationals perceived to be relatively wealthy are often targeted. Protests, generally stemming from socio-economic and political grievances, occur frequently in Niger and are often met with strong responses from security forces.
Last updated: August 8, 2023
Infrastructure
There are no major aviation concerns and security measures at Niamey’s main international airport are generally considered adequate.
Land travel is one of the main risks for foreign tourists in Niger due to poor road conditions and erratic driving by many local drivers.
Niger’s low electricity rates and limited generation capacity have led to erratic supply even in major urban centers. Internet penetration in Niger is low and its availability is mainly limited to Niamey and a few large cities.
Last updated: May 9, 2022
Environment
Niger is prone to flooding during the rainy season, which runs from June to October each year, and is typically characterized by the evacuation of communities, large-scale disruption of land travel, and significant damage to infrastructure. Niger is also prone to drought and extreme temperatures. Landmines and unexploded ordnance are a concern in northern and southeastern Niger.
Last updated: March 15, 2022
Health and Medical
The main health risks in Niger are malaria and, to a lesser extent, bacterial meningitis. Facilities are limited to the capital and clinics and hospitals are equipped to perform basic procedures, but returning to the country is strongly recommended for all surgeries. Availability of drugs is limited and counterfeiting is a serious problem. Tap water is not safe for consumption.
Last updated: February 24, 2022
Political
Niger has enjoyed relative political stability since Mahamadou Issoufou became president in 2011. Mr. Bazoom became the president. Corruption is a problem in Niger that affects civil servants and the police. The rule of law continues to be challenged in Niger due to understaffing and low salaries for judicial officers. There are currently no sanctions against Niger.
Last updated: August 8, 2023
