Travel Insurance for Niger

Country Risk Code: High

Niger is considered a high-risk country due to unpredictable security. Hence, many governments advise their citizens not to travel to this destination. However, should you have a reason to visit the country, it is important that you have the right travel insurance coverage.

Potential Risks

Ever since the presidential election, which took place in March 2021, the rate of violence in Niger has increased. There is a risk of terrorism in Niger as terrorists are planning attacks against foreign visitors, especially westerners. Terrorist attacks in public places such as cafes, restaurants, and hotels. There is a risk of being kidnapped, especially outside the state capital and in rural areas. Foreign visitors are the major target for kidnaps as they could be kidnapped from their cars, workplaces, or homes.
There have been cases of violent clashes between armed groups and security forces in places such as Diffa, Maradi, Agadez, Tahoua, and Zinder. There is violent crime in Niger, including criminal activities such as mugging, carjacking, kidnapping, and home invasions. There is the risk of being scammed are scams are common in Niger. Some criminals may pose as embassy workers and extort money from you.
The roads are generally not in good condition, especially in rural areas, as you will need a four-wheel-drive to travel if you are traveling by land. Public taxis are also substandard and in poor conditions. Public transport is not advised for visitors due to the high risk of violent crime. There is the risk of encountering landmines in Niger, even in the capital. Regions such as the Agadez and Talak Plains are dangerous. A militant group based in Nigeria known as Boko Haram has begun to operate in some parts of the countrye5. The group has launched an attack on hundreds of people.

Health Risks

Insect-borne diseases such as malaria and yellow fever are common in Niger. Visitors are advised to protect themselves from being bitten by mosquitoes. The risk of contracting HIV/AIDS is also high in Niger. Foodborne and water-borne diseases are also common in the country, such as hepatitis, rabies, cholera, and polio. There is poor health care service in Niger. Medical facilities are substandard and limited, even in Niamey. In rural areas, Healthcare services are even worse; they're almost non-existent and inadequate.

Local laws

Drug activities are illegal in Niger. There is a heavy penalty for anyone caught in any drug activity. Penalties may include paying heavy fines and serving long prison sentences.
Taking photos of military structures, military personnel, government assets, presidential buildings, and diplomatic structures, airport television stations, and other public places is illegal in Niger. Stick to taking pictures within private places or seek permission before taking photos of locals.
Having dual nationality is not recognised in Niger. The authorities will treat you as a citizen of the passport you carry.
The standard way of dressing in Niger is conservative and women are expected to wear headscarves and loose clothes that cover their bodies.

Travel Tips

• Take official advice seriously.
• Avoid places where terrorist attacks could likely take place.
• Be cautious of your environment at all times.
• Ensure you update your security arrangement before traveling to Niger.
• Always move around with personal security.
• Please obey all curfew.
• Do not travel during dark hours.
• Be cautious when you are around people you don't know and avoid giving out personal details and information to strangers.
• Avoid keeping personal documents carelessly.
• Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by wearing long-sleeved clothes and using insect repellent. Also, travel with anti-malarial medication.
• A certificate for yellow fever vaccination is essential before you enter Niger.
• Take precautions to prevent contracting HIV or AIDS.
• Take only boiled or bottled water.
• Avoid eating food that is not well cooked or raw.
• Avoid swimming in Freshwater.
• Ensure that you are vaccinated against polio before traveling to Niger.
• Ensure you always move around with your residence permit or a valid visa.
• Due to the coronavirus pandemic, you are expected to wear a face mask in public places.
• Travelers traveling in and out of Niger by air are expected to provide evidence of negative COVID-19 tests before flying.

Choosing The Right Insurance For Your Trip To Niger

Many governments do not accept Niger as a safe country for its citizens, which can affect your travel insurance. Some companies don't cover Niger, and others may only be able to offer limited assistance. You should review your insurance provider's policy to ensure your insurance company covers Niger.
For visitors planning to do business in Niger, they are advised to get trade and political risk insurance. As a result of the high insecurity and instability in Niger, these trade and political risk insurance would help them protect their investments and assets. Travel medical insurance with provisions for emergency evacuation is crucial.