Niger: Increased security along the border with Nigeria

Event

Since June 2018, Nigerien security patrols in the Maradi region (bordering Nigeria) have been reinforced amid rising security concerns, notably an uptick in kidnapping-for-ransom cases in the area. According to the regional governor, criminals responsible for the increasing insecurity are entering the country by posing as one of the many refugees fleeing violence in neighboring Nigeria. Increasingly frequent security operations are to be anticipated throughout Maradi in the coming weeks and months.

Context

Deadly intercommunal clashes and attacks have been ongoing in Zamfara state (Nigeria) for several months, prompting hundreds of civilians to take refuge in neighboring states, including Niger.

Advice

Individuals in Niger are advised to monitor the situation, remain vigilant, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.