Niger coup: Amid closed airspace, India urges citizens to depart violence-hit Niger via road
Nearly 250 Indian nationals are currently residing in Niger, a nation gripped by widespread protests and violence following military coup in July 2023
New Delhi: Amidst escalating violence triggered by the last month's military coup, Indians residing in Niger have received advisory urging them to depart the West African nation at the earliest.
Currently, nearly 250 Indian nationals are living in Niger, where the coup has incited widespread protests and turmoil, according to official figures. Notably, various European nations have evacuated their citizens from this politically unstable country, now under military junta rule.
The Union Foreign Ministry, in its advisory, has asked people to reconsider travel plans to Niger until the situation stabilises. The government is closely monitoring the developments in Niger, with Arindam Bagchi, Foreign Ministry spokesperson, highlighting the need for Indian nationals, whose presence is not essential, to promptly leave the country given the prevailing circumstances.
Bagchi noted that the airspace was closed and one must take precautions while departing through the land border, urging all Indians in Niger to register themselves with the embassy.
Bagchi reassured that the embassy, situated in Niger's capital, is actively assisting Indian residents in their departure efforts. He also shared an emergency contact ( 227 9975 9975) for embassy assistance. Bagchi said reports indicate the safety of the Indian community in Niger as of now.
What's happening in Niger?
Niger is currently experiencing a volatile situation characterized by political upheaval and violence. The country faced a military coup on July 26, when General Abdourahmane Tchiani seized power by overthrowing and detaining President Mohamed Bazoum. This abrupt change in leadership has led to widespread protests, unrest, and demonstrations across the nation.
The coup has disrupted the political stability of Niger, and its aftermath has triggered concerns about potential civil unrest and the impact on regional security. The situation is further complicated by Niger's role as a key partner in the fight against Islamist militancy in West Africa, making the events there of significant international interest.
Several countries, including European nations, have evacuated their citizens from Niger due to the escalating violence and instability. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, and diplomatic efforts are underway to address the crisis and restore stability to the country.
Niger is the fifth African country to witness a couple in less than three years, following neighbours Mali, Guinea, Chad and Burkina Faso. It is also the fourth coup in the country since its independence in 1960.