Niamey Secure Transportation Services

Secure Transportation and Executive Protection in Niger

ETS Risk Management only operates with experienced local Executive Protection Officers with exceptional knowledge of the environment and local cultures. Our trained security drivers are licenced, qualified, and vetted with multiple years’ experience providing secure transportation both in Niamey and throughout Niger.  ETS are highly experienced operating in the region and are focused on providing clients with secure, reliable and highly professional services throughout.

We are the trusted provider of secure transportation, executive protection and travel risk management in Niger. Our team is involved in providing myriad security services to Non-Government Organizations (NGO) and Media Organizations visiting the region.

ETS facilities secure transport with a range of non-armored SUVs, and experienced vetted local drivers.  Our Executive Protection Officers are fully qualified, highly trained and experienced in operating in high risk / high stress environments.

ETS Security Overview - Niger

Niger is a large, landlocked country in West Africa, bordered by Algeria, Libya, Chad, Nigeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, and Mali. It covers an area of over 1.2 million square kilometers, making it one of the largest countries in Africa, but much of its landscape is dominated by the Sahara Desert. It faces numerous challenges related to security, governance, and socio-economic development. The country is vulnerable to terrorism, armed conflict, crime, and natural disasters.

The country’s capital, Niamey, located in the southwestern region along the Niger River, is the country’s political, economic, and cultural center. While generally lower risk than rural and border areas of Niger, Niamey still presents significant security risks, including crime, terrorism, political instability, and health concerns.

Niger is particularly volatile and experiences a significant terrorist threat, particularly from Islamist extremist groups such as Boko Haram, Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS), and al-Qaeda-affiliated groups. While Niamey has seen fewer terrorist attacks compared to rural areas, the capital is not immune to the broader regional threat. Government buildings, military installations, and foreign diplomatic missions could be potential targets for terrorist attacks. Public places such as hotels, markets, and transport hubs where foreigners may gather are also at risk. Security has been heightened around these locations, but travelers should remain vigilant and avoid large gatherings. While Niamey itself is not as heavily impacted by terrorism as the border regions of Niger, areas outside the capital, particularly those near Mali, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria, are extremely dangerous and should be avoided.

Kidnappings have occurred in Niger, particularly in rural and border areas, but the risk is lower in Niamey. However, terrorist groups in the region have previously targeted foreign nationals, and there remains a general risk of kidnapping for ransom. Travelers should maintain a low profile, avoid discussing their travel plans in public, and stay informed of local security developments.

Petty crime such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and theft is common in Niamey, especially in crowded areas like markets, bus stations, and tourist hotspots. Foreigners and expatriates may be targeted due to their perceived wealth. Travelers should remain vigilant, avoid displaying valuable items, and be cautious in public spaces. While less common than petty crime, violent crime, including armed robbery and carjackings, occurs frequently in Niamey, particularly at night. Foreign nationals may be targeted in residential areas and on roads leading to and from the airport. Travelers should avoid walking or driving alone at night, and it is advisable to use secure transportation options, such as trusted taxis or hired drivers.

Healthcare facilities in Niamey are limited, with many hospitals and clinics lacking adequate medical supplies and equipment. While private clinics offer better services, serious medical conditions may require evacuation to a country with more advanced healthcare infrastructure. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.

Road conditions in Niamey vary, with major roads in the city generally well-maintained, while secondary roads may be poorly paved or unpaved. Traffic can be chaotic, with frequent accidents caused by reckless driving, poor vehicle maintenance, and pedestrians or animals on the road. 

Public transportation options, such as buses and shared taxis, are widely used in Niamey but may not meet international safety standards and are often overcrowded. Petty theft is common on public transport, and foreigners are advised to avoid using these services. Travelers should avoid driving themselves and instead use trusted, more secure transportation options, such as hotel-arranged taxis or private drivers.

Secure Airport Transfers in Niamey 

We provide secure airport transfers for a range of clients moving through Niamey. Our security drivers are accompanied by our experienced Executive Protection Officers to provide a low-profile meet and greet service, ensuring secure onward travel from the airport to your hotel, and vice versa. 

 

All clients utilizing our services get free access to the ExploreSecure® Travel Security Training.