Niger's Minister of Mines Visits Agadez Region to Oversee Mining Sector Progress

On November 10, 2026, Niger's Minister of Mines, Commissioner-Colonel Major Ousmane Abarchi, visited the Agadez region to assess the progress of mining activities and meet with stakeholders. The visit aimed to evaluate the state of mining operations, verify compliance with agreements, and engage with various actors to understand the challenges they face. The meeting took place at the Agadez Governorate and brought together officials, mining operators, artisanal miners, and community representatives.

Minister Abarchi commended the efforts of state services, administrative and customary authorities, mining operators, artisanal miners, and local communities in contributing to the progress made in implementing mining reforms. He highlighted that since July 26, 2023, Niger has been working to regain sovereignty over its mining sector, focusing on controlling resource exploitation and ensuring that wealth generated benefits the country sustainably. This vision aims to transform the mining sector into a driver of economic growth.

The Minister emphasized the need to increase revenue collection, train more Nigeriens in mining professions, and integrate national enterprises into the value chain. He also stressed the importance of developing processing capacities in Niger and protecting water, land, and public health throughout the mining process. Furthermore, Abarchi noted that the global energy transition presents new opportunities for mineral-producing countries like Niger.

Minister Abarchi urged mining title holders and operators to comply with mining legislation, including environmental and social norms. He requested that they provide accurate information and adhere to their commitments to workers and communities. The Minister also reminded stakeholders that team safety, environmental protection, and site rehabilitation are integral to mining operations.

The Minister addressed artisanal miners, encouraging them to collaborate with competent services to formalize their activities and improve site safety. He assured them that state services would guide and support them through this process. Abarchi also engaged with local and customary authorities, community representatives, and civil society organizations.

Key aspects of the meeting included the importance of stakeholder collaboration, compliance with regulations, and sustainable mining practices. The Minister's visit demonstrated the government's commitment to responsible mining and its potential to drive economic growth. By engaging with various stakeholders, Abarchi aimed to ensure that the mining sector contributes to Niger's development.

The visit and meeting reflect the Nigerien government's efforts to prioritize the mining sector's development and ensure that its resources are harnessed for the country's benefit. The Minister's discussions with stakeholders highlighted the complexities and challenges of the sector, as well as the need for cooperation and responsible practices.

Key points

• The Nigerien government is working to regain sovereignty over its mining sector and ensure that wealth generated benefits the country sustainably.
• The Minister emphasized the importance of protecting water, land, and public health throughout the mining process.
• The visit demonstrated the government's commitment to responsible mining and its potential to drive economic growth.