NIGER: Avoid all travel- terrorist cell intercepted
Niger overall (except Niamey)
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to Niger, with the exception of Niamey.
There is a risk to personal safety throughout the country. There are concerns about the risk of kidnapping by the group Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM). As a result of this risk, all travel to isolated areas should be avoided, particularly to the regions of Tillabéry, Tahoua, Arlit and Agadez as well as in the border regions with Mali and Burkina Faso.
Canadians should check with local authorities, with the Embassy of Canada in Bamako, Mali or with the Office of the Canadian Embassy in Niamey for the latest security information.
Niamey
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to Niamey. Although the security situation has improved in Niamey, the threat of kidnapping is very present, as highlighted by the interception by Niger security forces of a terrorist cell within a few kilometers of Niamey in mid-August 2012. Evidence points to a kidnapping attempt. Canadians are advised to remain extremely vigilant, limit their movement and to avoid travelling after dark. All travel between the airport and Niamey must be done in convoy of at least two vehicles.
Go to www.voyage.gc.ca for more information on these advisories, or call 1-800-267-6788 FREE 1-800-267-6788 in Canada and United States.