For decades, the Niger, although endowed with vast oil resources, has struggled to fully capitalize on these natural riches, essentially exporting its crude without significant local valorization. In a historic turning point under the governance of Tchianithe government has initiated an ambitious project to reverse this trend, thus marking a firm commitment to a promising economic future.
On June 7, 2024, the Minister of Oil, Barké Bako Maman Moustapha, made an impactful announcement during the meeting of the technical committee at the general directorate of hydrocarbons in Niamey. A large-scale project was launched there, aimed at the construction of a new refinery in Zinder and a petrochemical complex in the Dosso region. This infrastructure aims to allow Niger to process its oil on site, thus increasing the added value of its natural resources.
The project, scheduled to begin operations in December 2025, is intended to be a direct response to the economic and technical challenges that the country has encountered in the past. With a projected capacity of 100,000 barrels per day, the refinery will be built using a modular model, allowing for accelerated implementation. A pre-feasibility study, carried out by national technical services, has already defined the contours of this major initiative.
The recently formed 22-member committee plays a crucial role in this strategic shift. He is responsible for analyzing technical and financial proposals and preparing the ground for the selection of strategic partners. According to Minister Moustapha, these preliminary stages are essential to ensure a smooth start to the work.
This strategic approach can be seen as a double victory for Niger. On the one hand, it promises to boost employment and boost the local economy through increased skills and advanced technologies. On the other hand, it could considerably reduce the country’s dependence on foreign markets with regard to the processing of its oil resources.
The establishment of this refinery therefore represents significant economic transformation potential for Niger. The impact on local employment, skills development and increased government revenues could redefine the country’s economic and social landscape in the years to come.
