A new US ambassador to Niger is expected to soon take up her role in the country's capital, Niamey.

Kathleen Fitzgibbon has been tasked with leading the US mission in Niger during what State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel described as a critical time.

The envoy is also expected to co-ordinate the US government’s efforts in addressing the coup and supporting Americans stuck in Niger.

Mr Patel did not clarify when the new envoy would travel to Niger.

However, he told reporters on Wednesday that her travel to Niger does not signal a change in the American government’s stance towards the military's seizure of power.

He said the US remained committed to promoting security, stability, and democracy in the Sahel region.

"Her arrival does not reflect a change in our position, and we continue to advocate for a diplomatic solution that respects the constitutional order in Niger, and for the immediate release of President Mohamed Bazoum and his family," Mr Patel said.

Ms FitzGibbon is a diplomat with significant experience working in Africa. She was confirmed by the US Senate as the Niger ambassador on 27 July, a day after the coup.

Niger has been without an American ambassador since December 2021.