NIAMEY, Nov 2 – Niger has received its first major fuel shipment from Algeria, with 53 trucks delivering approximately 1.65 million litres of petroleum products to the northern city of Agadez under military escort, as the two countries deepen energy and security cooperation.
The convoy arrived over the weekend with troops from both countries providing security, according to Niger’s state broadcaster RTN.
The delivery comes as Niger faces shortages of petrol and diesel, which the government has linked to broader global energy market instability, including geopolitical conflicts, supply chain disruptions and fluctuations in petroleum prices.
Energy cooperation has become an increasingly important component of relations between the two countries. Algeria’s state-owned oil and gas company, Sonatrach, already has investments in Niger, while both governments are involved in discussions around major regional energy infrastructure.
One of the most significant projects is the proposed $13 billion Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, which also involves Nigeria. The project is designed to transport natural gas from Nigeria through Niger to Algeria, connecting African gas resources with Algerian export infrastructure for onward supply to European and other international markets.
Algeria has also indicated that its military presence in Niger is intended to protect its energy and economic interests. However, the government has not disclosed the size of the force or the timeline for its deployment.
The latest fuel delivery follows a series of military cooperation agreements between the neighbouring countries. Relations have improved following diplomatic tensions triggered by Niger’s July 2023 military coup.
In August 2026, Algeria donated four helicopters to Niger, comprising two Mi-24V attack helicopters and two Mi-171 helicopters, alongside ammunition, spare parts and maintenance equipment.
Algiers also deployed four Russian-made Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets and an aerial refuelling aircraft following an attempted mutiny against Niger’s military government.
Niger possesses significant natural resources, including uranium, oil and gold, but continues to face security challenges from insurgent groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State across the Sahel.
The fuel shipment adds a practical dimension to the growing relationship between Algiers and Niamey, combining immediate petroleum supply support with longer-term cooperation in energy infrastructure and security.
