Niger Revokes Tanker Licenses Over Refusal to Deliver Fuel to Mali Amid Jihadist Threats

Dozens of Nigerien transport operators have had their licenses revoked for refusing to deliver fuel to neighboring Mali, where convoys face, where convoys face potential attacks by jihadist groups.

Transport Minister Abdourahamane Amadou confirmed the move in a statement dated 6 January. The decision comes amid ongoing security threats in northern Mali, where fuel tankers on major highways have been targeted by militants, causing severe fuel shortages.

Mali, which relies heavily on fuel imports, had signed a deal with Niger in July to supply 85 million litres of fuel over six months to its vast northern desert region. Last November, Niger successfully delivered 82 tankers, helping stabilize Mali’s energy supply temporarily. However, recent refusals by drivers and operators have disrupted subsequent deliveries.

As a result, Niger’s Transport Ministry has revoked the licenses of 14 transport operators and 19 drivers who declined to transport fuel, citing security risks.

The fuel shortages in Mali have raised international concern, with countries including the United States and France advising their citizens to leave the country.