Niger: President-elect Mohamed Bazoum to be inaugurated in Niamey April 2 /update 5

Event

The inauguration of president-elect Mohamed Bazoum will be held in Niamey April 2. Ahead of the event, authorities have announced the closure of the Kennedy Bridge April 1-2 as part of security procedures. Road closures are also likely in the vicinity of the Mahatma Gandhi Convention Center, where the event will be held. Several African leaders and other dignitaries will attend the event.

The inauguration follows a reported attempted coup in the capital March 31. Authorities have stated that the uprising has been quelled and the capital is secure. An unverified number of arrests have been made following the incident. The US Embassy in Niger closed its consular section March 31 in response to the gunfire. The embassy's operations have reportedly resumed as of April 1.

Security personnel are likely to set up roadblocks and identity checks around sensitive sites and hotels in Niamey. Moreover, due to the perceived increased threat of terrorism and following the failed coup, authorities could also increase security measures near government buildings and foreign embassies. Traffic disruptions are likely in areas where heightened security measures are enforced, including on roads to and from Diori Hamani International Airport (NIM) as dignitaries arrive. Security personnel are also likely to close roads temporarily to prioritize official motorcade movements.

Advice

If operating in Niamey, exercise increased vigilance through April 2. Avoid all demonstrations due to the possibility of violence. Keep away from areas where security personnel appear to be deploying. If clashes break out nearby, take shelter in a safe, non-governmental building. Monitor trusted local news sources for developments. Heed all instructions from security personnel and allow additional travel time near gatherings.