On October 29, 2026, Niger's Council of Ministers convened under the presidency of General Abdourahamane Tiani, President of the Republic and Head of State. The meeting resulted in the adoption of several significant projects aimed at promoting economic development and improving various sectors. One of the key decisions was the creation of the National Observatory for "Consommons Nigérien" (ONCN), an intersectoral body tasked with promoting the consumption of local products, goods, and services.
The National Observatory for "Consommons Nigérien" (ONCN) will be responsible for collecting and analyzing data on local consumption, evaluating public policies and private initiatives, and proposing strategic orientations. The ONCN will also facilitate dialogue between public and private stakeholders and monitor actions related to promoting local consumption. This initiative aims to boost the country's economic growth by encouraging the consumption of locally produced goods and services.
In the transportation sector, the Council of Ministers adopted a project to create the Société Nigérienne de Transport par Rails (SNTR), a rail transport company aimed at managing rail traffic in accordance with international safety and security standards. The SNTR will operate as a mixed-economy company, providing reliable, safe, and sustainable rail transport services. This project is part of the strategy to develop the railway sector within the framework of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
The Council of Ministers also adopted several projects related to civil aviation. These include the creation of an Organizing Committee for Aviation Safety and Facilitation (OCSF), which aims to strengthen the protection of airport platforms and clarify the responsibilities of different entities involved in aviation safety. Additionally, the Council adopted projects related to the creation of the National Environment Committee for Airports (CNEA) and the National Aviation Safety Committee (CNSA).
The National Environment Committee for Airports (CNEA) will serve as a multi-stakeholder platform for environmental arbitration and monitoring. Its responsibilities will include issuing opinions and recommendations on noise pollution and controlling activities that may impact flight safety. The CNEA will also mediate conflicts related to zoning and ensure that local populations are informed and sensitized to environmental issues.
The National Aviation Safety Committee (CNSA) will be responsible for coordinating the activities of public administrations and other structures involved in implementing the National Civil Aviation Safety Program. This committee aims to ensure that aviation safety standards are met and that the country's aviation sector is in line with international regulations.
Finally, the Council of Ministers adopted a project to establish the conditions for creating an aerodrome open to public air traffic. This project sets out the institutional and administrative framework applicable to the creation of aerodromes, whether initiated by the state, local authorities, public establishments, or private individuals. These decisions demonstrate the Nigerien government's commitment to improving the country's infrastructure and promoting economic development.
Key points
- The Nigerien government has adopted several key projects to boost economic development, including the creation of the National Observatory for "Consommons Nigérien" and the Société Nigérienne de Transport par Rails.
