Minister of Urbanism and Housing, M. Abdoul Kadri Amadou Daouda, announced new urban development reforms and a transborder project during an interview with RTN on Monday, June 22, 2026. The ministry is committed to improving urban planning, housing access, and land management, aiming to sustainably transform Nigerien cities. M. Abdoul Kadri Amadou Daouda stated that a common vision for urban development is shared, "malgré les différences institutionnelles entre les pays de l’AES dans les domaines de l’urbanisme, de l’aménagement du territoire et de l’équipement." He confirmed that a transborder pilot project is under consideration for the Liptako-Gourma zone, intended to foster integrated development in the three-border area. The government is determined to sustainably transform Nigerien cities, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of their inhabitants.
Key Reform Initiatives
The social housing program, previously initiated, will continue and be extended to regions beyond the capital, according to M. Abdoul Kadri Amadou Daouda. This expansion aims to ensure that housing access is improved across the interior of the country, not just in urban centers. A significant project to construct 5,000 housing units is planned, with financial backing from the African Development Bank (BAD). This initiative shows the ministry's commitment to addressing the housing deficit and providing affordable options for citizens.
The Minister also confirmed the ongoing implementation of the iCadastre project, which aims to modernize land management and administration. This project is key for transparent and efficient land governance. Additionally, plans include the rehabilitation of older neighborhoods within cities, a measure designed to enhance living conditions and infrastructure in established urban areas. The development of new urban planning tools is also slated for several localities across the country, as part of the broader urban development strategy. These tools are expected to guide structured urban growth and ensure sustainable development practices. These initiatives collectively aim to improve living conditions and ensure more structured urban growth, aligning with the ministry's overarching goals.
Budget and Operational Capacity
Four budgetary programs have been developed to support the ministry's mission letter, according to M. Abdoul Kadri Amadou Daouda. The budget allocated for these programs totals 4.381 billion FCFA. This substantial budget envelope is intended to finance the various reform initiatives and ongoing projects. This figure represents 0.14% of the finance law, noting the government's investment in urban development. The department is also confronting challenges related to staffing, particularly due to departures resulting from retirements. To strengthen its operational capacities and ensure effective implementation of its programs, the ministry has identified an estimated need for 237 additional agents. This recruitment drive is vital for maintaining the ministry's service delivery and project oversight capabilities.
Inter-State Cooperation and Digitalization
The Ministry of Urbanism and Housing is also strengthening cooperation with member countries of the Alliance des États du Sahel (AES) on urban and land matters. This collaboration is essential for addressing common regional challenges and sharing best practices in urban development. M. Abdoul Kadri Amadou Daouda emphasized the importance of public participation, calling upon citizens to embrace the ongoing reforms and adhere to new urbanism and land management regulations. Their active involvement is considered key for the success and sustainability of these initiatives. Internally, the ministry is modernizing its administration by digitalizing its mail and archives, a move aimed at improving efficiency and accessibility of information. A new videoconferencing system has been implemented to improve communication and exchanges with its decentralized services across the country, fostering better coordination and responsiveness. These digital initiatives aim to enhance efficiency and streamline operations within the ministry, supporting its mandate to transform Nigerien cities.