Statement on attempted coup in Niger

August 1, 2023 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement:

“Canada welcomes the leadership and decisions taken by the leaders of the Economic Community of West African States [ECOWAS] at their summit on Sunday, July 30, aimed at restoring constitutional order in Niger. Canada reiterates that President Mohamed Bazoum, his family and the detained members of the democratically elected government must be released immediately. We also support ECOWAS’s call for the reinstatement of President Bazoum as head of state within the timeframe prescribed by the regional organization.

“Canada condemns the coup attempt, which threatens the stability of Niger and the region. The forcible seizure of power by elements of the defence and security forces compromises the peace, stabilization and development efforts undertaken by the democratically elected government. Canada is committed to supporting democracy, inclusive governance and the rule of law.

“We express our deepest solidarity with the people of Niger as they face this crisis.”

Canadians in Niger in need of emergency consular assistance can contact the Embassy of Canada in Bamako, Mali at +223 44 98 04 50. They may also contact Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre by phone at +1 613 996 8885 (collect calls are accepted where available), by text message at +1 613 686 3658 or through Telegram at Canada Emergency Abroad, WhatsApp at +1 613 909 8881 or Signal at +1 613 909 8087. They can also send an email to sos@international.gc.ca or bmakoCS@international.gc.ca.