![Hon. Festus Keyamo SAN arrives MMIA past 11:50 p.m. Feb 23 to lead oversight of Terminal 1 fire. Joined FAAN MD & team actively managing situation. Directed morning inspection Tuesday to guide restoration & confirm safety standards. Reaffirmed focus on passenger safety. Story: [link] #KeyamoMMIA #FireIncident #FAAN](https://fullcliphq.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/mym-150x150.jpg "MMIA Fire: Keyamo Inspects Lagos Airport After Terminal 1 Blaze Disrupts Flights")
Germany has temporarily pulled its diplomatic staff out of Niger due to serious concerns over the deteriorating security situation, with Western nationals increasingly targeted for kidnappings by terrorist groups and criminal networks.
The German Foreign Ministry announced the decision yesterday, citing a sharp rise in violent attacks and abductions in border regions, particularly areas shared with Benin and Nigeria. Monitoring groups report jihadist activity has intensified significantly over the past year, with violent incidents up by approximately 80 per cent and fatalities tripling in affected zones.
Niger has faced persistent jihadist violence for more than a decade, with affiliates of al-Qaeda and Islamic State consolidating influence across border areas. A deadly attack on an airbase in the capital Niamey last month underscored the militants’ continued reach, even into urban centres.
Since the military junta seized power in July 2023, security challenges have persisted despite a shift in alliances. Niger has ended military cooperation with France and other Western partners, turning instead to Russia for support in counter-insurgency operations. This realignment has coincided with a complex and volatile security environment, including increased risks for foreign nationals.
The withdrawal follows a similar move by the United States, which ordered non-essential embassy staff to leave in late January 2026. European governments and international organisations have repeatedly warned of heightened kidnapping threats targeting Westerners for ransom or political leverage.
Niger’s military-led authorities have not yet issued an official response to the German decision. The junta has previously accused Western powers of interference and has sought to reduce foreign military presence while strengthening ties with non-Western partners.
Germany maintains that the temporary evacuation is a precautionary measure and that essential consular services will continue through alternative channels. No specific timeline has been provided for staff return, pending a reassessment of the security environment.
