In a recent address to the United Nations General Assembly, Niger's Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine emphasized the crucial role of Algeria in supporting his country's resilience and sovereignty. He described Algeria as a "brotherly and neighboring country" that has provided significant assistance in various sectors, including energy, defense, healthcare, education, and agriculture. This statement highlights the strengthening ties between the two nations, particularly in the context of Niger's efforts to overcome recent political and economic challenges.
The Prime Minister's remarks underscore the importance of Algeria as a strategic partner for Niger. Zeine cited several areas where Algerian support has been instrumental, including the exploitation of natural resources, defense, health, education, energy, and agriculture. Additionally, he mentioned two major infrastructure projects: the Trans-Saharan Road and the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP). These projects aim to enhance regional integration and boost economic cooperation between the two countries.
The cooperation between Algeria and Niger has gained momentum in recent months. In March 2026, the second session of the Algerian-Nigerien Mixed Commission, held in Niamey, resulted in the signing of several agreements, memoranda of understanding, and cooperation programs in various fields, including energy, healthcare, public works, and scientific research. This cooperation extends beyond diplomatic efforts, with concrete projects in the energy and industrial sectors.
One notable example of this cooperation is the joint exploration and production of oil and gas resources. In August 2026, Algeria's state-owned oil company, Sonatrach, and Niger's Sonidep launched a new phase of exploration in Kafra, northern Niger, with plans to drill four wells. This project builds on previous exploration work by Sonatrach and the extension of the evaluation period for the permit in April 2026.
The commercialization of Nigerien oil has also taken a significant step forward. Sonatrach and Sonidep began jointly marketing Nigerien crude oil, known as "Meleck," in August 2026, with the first cargo loaded at the Sèmè oil terminal in Benin. Furthermore, Sonatrach started supplying Jet A1 fuel to the Nigerien market, demonstrating the growing economic partnership between the two countries.
The Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP) project is another key area of cooperation, aiming to connect Nigeria to Algeria through Niger. This project is seen as a vital instrument for regional integration and a means to leverage Niger's strategic geographical position. Recent developments include the launch of work on the Algerian section of the TSGP in June 2026 and ongoing discussions between Algerian and Nigerien officials to advance the project.
The strengthened relationship between Algeria and Niger comes in the context of regional dynamics, including the recent change in power in Niger in July 2023 and the subsequent sanctions imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The lifting of these sanctions in February 2024 has paved the way for Niger to deepen its partnerships with neighboring countries, including Algeria, and to pursue its integration into regional and international frameworks.
Key points
- Algeria has been cited as a key supporter of Niger's sovereignty and resilience by Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine at the UN General Assembly.
- The two countries have strengthened cooperation in various sectors, including energy, defense, and agriculture, as well as major infrastructure projects like the Trans-Saharan Road and Gas Pipeline.
- The partnership between Algeria and Niger aims to enhance regional integration, boost economic cooperation, and improve the economic and social prospects for both nations.
