Minister of State for Hydrocarbons M. Mohamed Arkab commenced a two-day working visit to Niger on Monday, September 21, 2026. The visit focuses on monitoring the advancement of partnership projects between Algeria and Niger, with particular emphasis on the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP). This engagement follows previous discussions and is part of ongoing bilateral energy cooperation efforts, according to information released by ANP on September 22, 2026, under reference ANP 0227 septembre 2026. The trip shows both nations' commitment to strengthening energy ties and infrastructure development.
Energy Project Pipeline Focus
Minister of State for Hydrocarbons Mohamed Arkab's visit aims to examine partnership projects within the hydrocarbon sector, with particular attention to the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP). A primary objective of the visit is to ensure a full follow-up on the progress of these partnership projects between Algeria and Niger, especially concerning the TSGP. The Algerian official's schedule includes monitoring the progress of the TSGP, a significant initiative designed to link Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria. This monitoring includes a detailed review of the work undertaken thus far and the plans for future development.
Algeria initiated construction work on its section of the TSGP project in June. This marked a significant step in the realization of the ambitious pipeline. Concurrently, preparations and various studies for the Nigerien segment of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline are currently underway. These ongoing studies are key for laying the groundwork for the pipeline's construction within Nigerien territory. The project represents a key focus for both nations in their efforts to enhance regional energy infrastructure and cooperation, promising to unlock new avenues for gas exports and regional energy security. The discussions during the visit aim to accelerate these preparatory phases and ensure smooth coordination between the two countries on this strategic project.
Broader Hydrocarbon Cooperation
The visit of M. Mohamed Arkab also serves as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation and intensify coordination in refining and petrochemicals. As part of this broader engagement, the Algerian delegation is monitoring major maintenance work currently underway at the Zinder refinery in Niger. This oversight ensures the operational efficiency and longevity of key energy infrastructure in Niger. Additionally, the visit is related to ongoing developments in research and exploration projects conducted by Sonatrach in partnership with Société nationale nigérienne du pétrole (Sonidep) at the Kafra oil block. These exploration efforts are vital for assessing and developing Niger's hydrocarbon potential.
The Algerian Hydrocarbons Minister's agenda also involves continuing the evaluation of new oil blocks in Niger, with particular focus on the Bilma block. This ongoing evaluation process is critical for identifying prospective areas for future oil and gas exploration and production, further solidifying the long-term energy partnership between Algeria and Niger. The full nature of these discussions and monitoring activities reflects a shared commitment to developing a strong and diversified hydrocarbon sector.
Bilateral Relations Strengthened
M. Mohamed Arkab is scheduled to meet with Nigerien officials to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in hydrocarbons and developing partnerships between the two nations. These high-level meetings are central to the visit, providing a platform for direct engagement and strategic planning. The discussions are expected to cover various aspects of energy collaboration, building on existing initiatives and exploring new opportunities for joint ventures.
The Algerian Minister of State for Hydrocarbons is accompanied by a delegation that includes M. Nour Eddine Daoudi, the Chief Executive Officer of Sonatrach, along with other senior executives from the Algerian state-owned energy company. Their presence shows the strategic importance of these discussions and the potential for direct engagement between the energy entities of Algeria and Niger. This high-level representation ensures that decisions made during the visit can be swiftly translated into actionable projects and sustained cooperation, reinforcing the energy ties between the two North African nations.