Summary

Memorandum Opinion

Plaintiff Menzies Middle East and Africa SA ("Menzies") has brought this action to confirm an arbitration award issued against the Republic of Niger ("Niger") in the International Center for the Settlement of Investment Disputes under the 1965 Convention on the Settlement of Investment Disputes between States and Nationals of Other States ("ICSID Convention"). 17 U.S.T. 1270; see Pet. to Confirm Arbitral Award. Plaintiff asks the Court to "(i) recogniz[e] and confirm[] the Award, and (ii) issu[e] a judgment. . . obligating Niger to pay [plaintiff] damages and costs," including post-judgment interest.

After plaintiff effected service, Niger failed to enter an appearance, and on July 18, 2024, plaintiff filed a request that the Clerk enter a default against Niger under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 55(a). The Clerk entered the default on July 29, 2024. Plaintiff then filed a motion pursuant to Rule 55(b) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure asking the Court to enter a default judgment against Niger and to confirm the arbitral award. See Mot. for Default Judgment and Confirm. of Arbit. Award ("Mot."). For the following reasons, the Court will GRANT plaintiff's motion for default judgment.