Algerian Minister of State and Minister of Energy, Mohamed Arkab, is set to embark on a two-day working visit to the Republic of Niger on September 21 and 22, 2026. The visit is at the behest of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and aims to bolster cooperation between the two nations in the energy sector. Arkab will be accompanied by key officials from the Sonatrach group, including its CEO, Noureddine Dawdi.
The visit seeks to build on the momentum in Algerian-Nigerien relations, particularly in the energy sector. The two countries have several joint projects, including the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP) and a search and exploration project by Sonatrach in partnership with Niger's national oil company, SONIDAP. The TSGP project aims to connect Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria, promoting regional energy integration and development of Africa's gas infrastructure.
During his visit, Arkab will assess the progress of these projects, including the TSGP, which Algeria began working on in June 2026. Preparations and studies for the Nigerien section of the pipeline are ongoing. The Algerian minister will also discuss ways to enhance cooperation in refining and petrochemistry, including the maintenance of Niger's Zinder refinery.
Strengthening cooperation and coordination in refining and petrochemistry will be a key aspect of the visit. The two countries will explore opportunities to expand their partnership in the energy sector, which will support economic development and growth in the region. Arkab is expected to hold talks with Nigerien officials to discuss bilateral cooperation and potential new projects.
The working visit will provide a platform for both countries to review existing projects and explore new opportunities for collaboration. This includes evaluating new oil and gas blocks in Niger, such as the Bilma block. The visit underscores Algeria's commitment to enhancing its cooperation with Niger and promoting African economic and energy integration.
Algeria and Niger have a long-standing partnership in the energy sector, with several joint projects aimed at harnessing their energy resources. The visit by Arkab is expected to further consolidate this partnership and identify new areas of cooperation. This aligns with Algeria's efforts to strengthen its relationships with neighboring countries and promote regional stability.
The visit comes at a time when Algeria is keen to expand its presence in the African energy market. By strengthening its ties with Niger, Algeria aims to promote energy cooperation and support economic development in the region. The two-day visit will likely yield significant outcomes, including agreements on new projects and enhanced cooperation in the energy sector.
Key points
- Algerian Minister of Energy, Mohamed Arkab, begins a two-day working visit to Niger on September 21, 2026.
- The visit aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the energy sector, particularly in projects such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline.
- Algeria and Niger have a long-standing partnership in the energy sector, with several joint projects aimed at harnessing their energy resources.
