Algerian Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, began a two-day working visit to Niger on September 21, 2026. The visit aims to examine partnership projects in the hydrocarbon sector, particularly the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP) project. According to a communiqué, the visit is part of the dynamic relations between Algeria and Niger, focusing on hydrocarbon cooperation. The TSGP project is a strategic initiative that seeks to enhance regional energy integration and develop Africa's gas infrastructure.
The visit will enable the two countries to review the progress of partnership projects, including the TSGP, which connects Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria. The project involves significant maintenance work at Niger's Zinder refinery and evaluating the TSGP's progress. Algeria started work on its section of the TSGP in June, while Niger continues preparatory studies for its part. The TSGP is a crucial project that will boost energy cooperation and economic integration among the participating countries.
During his visit, Minister Arkab will discuss ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector with Nigerien officials. The talks will focus on developing partnerships between specialized enterprises and organizations in both countries, as well as monitoring joint projects and their potential expansion. The Algerian minister is accompanied by key officials, including Sonatrach's CEO, Nour Eddine Daoudi, and other senior sector executives.
The visit also covers the development of a research and exploration project by Sonatrach, in partnership with Niger's Société nationale nigérienne du pétrole (Sonidep), in the Kafra oil block. Furthermore, the two countries will evaluate new oil blocks in Niger, including the Bilma block. These initiatives demonstrate the commitment of Algeria and Niger to enhancing their cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector.
The Algerian delegation will also engage in discussions on the state of progress of the TSGP and other joint projects. The visit is a testament to Algeria's willingness to strengthen its cooperation with Niger and consolidate partnerships based on expertise exchange and energy resource valorization. This cooperation aims to promote African economic and energy integration.
The communiqué highlights that the visit is part of a broader effort to intensify coordination in refining and petrochemicals. This includes monitoring major maintenance work at Niger's Zinder refinery and assessing the progress of the TSGP. The two countries are committed to developing their energy infrastructure and promoting regional cooperation.
Minister Arkab's visit to Niger underscores the importance of the hydrocarbon sector in the relations between Algeria and Niger. The two countries are working together to develop their energy resources and enhance regional integration. The visit is expected to yield positive outcomes that will strengthen bilateral cooperation and promote economic development in both countries.
Key points
- Algerian Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, visits Niger to discuss partnership projects in the hydrocarbon sector, particularly the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP) project.
- The visit aims to strengthen cooperation and coordination in refining and petrochemicals, including maintenance work at Niger's Zinder refinery.
- The TSGP project is a strategic initiative that seeks to enhance regional energy integration and develop Africa's gas infrastructure.
