Niger and Algeria Renew Energy Sector Partnership

Niger and Algeria have agreed to resume cooperation in the oil sector, signalling renewed momentum in bilateral energy relations between the two countries.

The announcement was made on Monday during a working visit to Niamey by Algeria’s Minister of State for Energy, Mines and Hydrocarbons, who confirmed that discussions had been held on restarting joint oil exploration activities. Speaking to Nigerien state television, the minister said both governments had reviewed key projects and finalised plans to begin drilling operations in the Kafra oil block.

He added that an Algerian energy company is expected to arrive in Niamey in the coming weeks to initiate the next phase of work.

Following talks with the visiting delegation, Niger’s Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, said the discussions focused on monitoring the activities of Algeria’s state-owned energy group, Sonatrach, particularly its involvement in oil exploration in northern Niger. Writing on his official Facebook page, the prime minister described the talks as “in-depth” and centred on progress at the Kafra block.

According to Nigerien public television, the Kafra oil block is believed to hold estimated reserves exceeding 260 million barrels. Development of the site could boost Niger’s oil output by around 90,000 barrels per day, significantly strengthening the country’s production capacity.
Niger began commercial oil production in 2011 at the Agadem block in the south-eastern Diffa region, which is operated by the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC).

The renewed cooperation with Algeria is expected to further diversify Niger’s oil partnerships and accelerate the expansion of its hydrocarbon sector.