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Leave Niger as soon as possible: Government issues advisory to Indian citizens

by Trans World Features | @twfindia 11 Aug 2023, 07:16 pm

The Centre on Friday issued an advisory and asked Indian nationals to leave conflict-hit Niger 'as soon as possible'.

"The Government of India is closely monitoring ongoing developments in Niger. In light of the prevailing situation, Indian nationals whose presence is not essential are advised to leave the country as soon as possible," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.

"They may bear in mind that air space is currently closed. When departing through a land border, utmost precautions may be taken to ensure safety and security," read the statement.

The government also asked Indians not to travel Niger in the upcoming days.

The government also asked them to reconsider their travel plans until the situation normalizes.

"All those Indian nationals who have not registered with the Indian Embassy in Niamey are strongly advised to do so expeditiously," read the statement.

How to contact Indian Embassy:

Indian nationals can reach emergency contact in the Embassy of India, Niamey (+ 227 9975 9975) for any assistance.

Situation in Niger:

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced concern about the reported “deplorable living conditions” of the President of Niger in arbitrary detention, his spokesperson said in a note to journalists published on Wednesday evening.

President Mohamed Bazoum and his family are believed to be living without electricity, water, food or medicine, according to media reports.

The democratically elected leader has been detained since soldiers seized power on 26 July.

"The Secretary-General reiterates his concern for the health and safety of the President and his family and once again calls for his immediate and unconditional release and reinstatement as head of state," the note said.

Guterres was also alarmed over continuing reports about the arrest of several members of the Government and urgently called for their unconditional release.

The UN fears the crisis in Niger could impact the wider West African region and continues to underscore the need to ensure ongoing humanitarian support to some 4.3 million people in the country.

This week, the World Food Programme (WFP) assisted more than 12,000 people in the Maradi region in south-central Niger, UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq said on Thursday.