The recent Niger coup was announced on Niger’s state television late on 26 July by a group of officers describing themselves as the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Country (CNSP). In addition to announcing the coup, the CNSP announced the suspension of the constitution, the dissolution of the government, the closure of all borders and the imposition of an indefinite overnight curfew. This occurred after elements of the Presidential Guard had detained President Mohamed Bazoum in the Presidential Palace and restricted access to the area earlier that day. On 28 July, the head of the Presidential Guard, General Omar Tchiani, announced himself as the leader of the CNSP.
On 2 August, International SOS raised Niger’s evacuation monitor level from WARNING to STAND BY. This is the third level of our five evacuation monitor levels, which includes preparatory, warning, stand by, evacuate: non-essential staff, and evacuate: all staff.
The most likely outcome of ongoing negotiations is the announcement by the CNSP of a plan for transition to democracy, and the continuation of a tense calm in the country. However, there is a credible risk of a rapid deterioration. The move to STANDBY indicates that advanced preparation for evacuation should be made in case the situation worsens sharply or in case organisations cannot support extended standfast periods.
International SOS’ advice for organisations currently operating in Niger is:
On 2 August, International SOS raised Niger’s evacuation monitor level from WARNING to STAND BY. This is the third level of our five evacuation monitor levels, which includes preparatory, warning, stand by, evacuate: non-essential staff, and evacuate: all staff.
The most likely outcome of ongoing negotiations is the announcement by the CNSP of a plan for transition to democracy, and the continuation of a tense calm in the country. However, there is a credible risk of a rapid deterioration. The move to STANDBY indicates that advanced preparation for evacuation should be made in case the situation worsens sharply or in case organisations cannot support extended standfast periods.
International SOS’ advice for organisations currently operating in Niger is:
- Defer all inbound travel to the country due to the potential for a rapid deterioration of the security environment.
- Minimise non-essential movement to reduce exposure to possible violence. Abide by the ongoing nationwide curfew.
- Workforce should ensure the ability to stand fast for at least seven days in secure accommodation, with sufficient essential supplies, including food, water, backup power, fuel, cash and essential medication.
- Information-sharing networks for workforces should be robust and prepared for the possible communications outages during crises.
- Workforce in urban centres should be warned of the risks of protests.
- Be aware of the risk of the situation deteriorating sharply, including at short notice.
- Conduct an assessment of all international assignees and travellers regarding the requirement to remain in country, factoring in willingness and ability to stand fast for an extended period.
- Ensure business continuity and crisis management plans are adjusted to current and potential scenarios. Evacuation plans need to consider the current operational challenges and the possibility that external support will be limited.
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