The Niger LIRE project, implemented by the Ministry of National Education with financial support from the International Development Association (IDA), has reached a new milestone with the handover of 33 sites for the construction of 225 classrooms in the Zinder region. This initiative aims to enhance learning conditions and improve education quality in Niger. The project covers several communes in the region, including Zinder, Garagoumsa, Ichirnawa, and Kantché.
A field visit from October 20-21, 2026, allowed project officials and local authorities to inspect the selected sites in the commune of Zinder. The sites include primary schools, a Franco-Arab school (médersa), and a college. In Zinder commune, four sites were visited: Awwale 3 primary school, Kouran Daga II primary school, Birni Sud médersa, and Barma Mustapha college. Other communes, such as Garagoumsa, Ichirnawa, and Kantché, also have sites allocated for the project.
According to Abdou Ali Issaka, regional construction specialist for the Niger LIRE project, the handover of sites began on October 14, 2026. The planned works include constructing new classrooms and complementary facilities to improve teaching and learning conditions. The specialist outlined that primary schools will have six classrooms, divided into blocks of two, with additional amenities such as a director's office and a multifunctional room.
The project also includes the construction of latrine blocks, caretaker accommodations, flagpoles, water points, and incinerators. Some sites will benefit from perimeter fencing, while others will require complementary or rehabilitation works on existing fences. At Barma Mustapha college, nine classrooms will be built, including a laboratory, library, administrative block, and other facilities.
The project timeline indicates that contractors have two and a half months to complete works in primary schools and four months for college projects. Abdou Ali Issaka emphasized the importance of preparing technical documents and execution plans to enable contractors to meet deadlines. Issoufou Mamane, administrator of Zinder City, welcomed the project, highlighting its potential to address infrastructure shortages.
Mamane encouraged contractors to maintain efforts, respect deadlines, and adhere to technical norms. He stressed the need for regular monitoring of works and vigilance on material quality and construction standards. The Niger LIRE project aims to increase school capacity and improve the educational environment in the Zinder region.
The project is expected to make a significant impact on education in the region, providing much-needed infrastructure to support students and teachers. With the handover of sites and commencement of works, the Zinder region is set to benefit from this major education initiative.
Key points
- The Niger LIRE project will construct 225 new classrooms in the Zinder region.
- The project aims to improve learning conditions and education quality in Niger.
- The construction works are expected to be completed within two and a half to four months.
