Niger under the military regime led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, has adopted a strict ordinance on the entry and stay of foreigners, against the backdrop of regional tensions and security concerns.
According to a press release from the General Secretariat of the Government to APA, the president of the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Fatherland (CNSP), General Abdourahamane Tiani, signed an ordinance strengthening the legal framework for the entry and stay of foreigners in Niger.
The text requires the possession of valid travel or residence documents for any foreigner entering or residing in Niger.
Offenders risk administrative measures such as expulsion as well as criminal sanctions ranging from two to five years in prison and fines of between 5 and 50 million CFA francs.
The reporting obligations of hosts of foreigners have also been strengthened. This decision comes amid tensions
between Niger and certain international powers, but also with its West African neighbours accused by Niamey of supporting attempts at destabilisation.
According to the General Secretariat of the Government, these measures aim to prevent infiltration and strengthen national security in an uncertain regional climate.
Foreigners in an irregular situation are invited to regularise their status within the allotted time.
AC/Sf/fss/as/APA