France evacuates it’s citizens from Niger

BY USMAN AHMED KANEMPRESS

1ST AUGUST 2023

France has begun the evacuation of its nationals from Niger on Tuesday.

The decision to move it citizens out was prompted by attacks on the French embassy in Niamey, and the closure of Niger’s airspace which made regular departures impossible.

France had earlier on Tuesday said that it was preparing an evacuation “in the face of a deteriorating security situation in Niamey” but gave no timeframe.

There are an estimated 600 French nationals in Niger, excluding visiting tourists or French residents currently outside the country.

The foreign ministry said France also offered to evacuate other European nationals.

France and the United States had deployed 2,600 soldiers in Niger to battle jihadists.

French President Emmanuel Macron had on Sunday vowed “immediate and uncompromising” action if French citizens or interests were attacked, after thousands rallied outside the French embassy in Niamey.