Dr. Mamoudou Harouna Djingarey, President of the Conseil Consultatif de la Refondation (CCR), met with Ms. Sylvia Lopez Ekra, Regional Director of the International Organization for Migration (OIM) for West and Central Africa. Ms. Ekra's visit to Niger, which took place from July 27 to July 30, 2026, provided an opportunity for discussions on migration and diaspora engagement. The meeting occurred as part of Ms. Ekra's official trip to the country, facilitating direct dialogue between the OIM and the CCR on these critical issues impacting the region. Her visit showed the OIM's dedication to fostering strong partnerships and addressing complex migration dynamics across the West and Central African regions. The engagement during this period allowed for a full review of ongoing initiatives and the exploration of new avenues for collaboration between the international body and Nigerien authorities.
Key Cooperation Areas Explored
The meeting facilitated extensive discussions on several key areas. These included migration challenges, cooperation prospects between Niger and the International Organization for Migration (OIM), and concrete actions for migration governance. Participants also addressed strengthening community resilience and valuing the Nigerien diaspora, recognizing their vital role in national development. The dialogue provided a platform to delve into the complexities of human mobility and to devise strategic responses tailored to Niger's specific context. Discussions extended to the Resilience Program for Safeguarding the Homeland (PRSP), a key initiative for the nation aimed at bolstering national stability and development. This program was noted as a critical component of Niger's strategic framework.
Another significant topic was the Nigerien Diaspora Forum – 2026 Edition. This forum was identified as a key framework for strengthening the contribution of Nigeriens residing abroad to national development efforts, aiming to channel their involvement effectively. The participants recognized the immense potential of the diaspora as agents of change and development, emphasizing the need for structured engagement mechanisms. The engagement covered a range of issues central to both migration management and the strategic integration of diaspora resources, illustrating a holistic approach to these interconnected themes. The discussions aimed to lay the groundwork for practical implementation strategies that would benefit both Nigerien communities and individuals abroad.
Partnership Principles Emphasized
Ms. Sylvia Lopez Ekra, Regional Director of the International Organization for Migration (OIM) for West and Central Africa, reaffirmed the OIM's commitment to supporting Niger. Her statement emphasized the organization's dedication to assisting the country in implementing its national priorities. This commitment reflects the OIM's broader mandate to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. Dr. Mamoudou Harouna Djingarey, President of the Conseil Consultatif de la Refondation (CCR), stressed the importance of the partnership between Niger and the OIM. He noted that this cooperation should be founded on mutual respect, ensuring that all actions align with the priorities established by Nigerien authorities. The CCR President's remarks showed the need for collaborative efforts to be congruent with the nation's strategic objectives, ensuring that external support genuinely serves the country's self-defined developmental path. This emphasis on national ownership and respect for sovereign priorities formed a cornerstone of their dialogue.
OIM's Regional Visit
The meeting between Dr. Mamoudou Harouna Djingarey, President of the Conseil Consultatif de la Refondation (CCR), and Ms. Sylvia Lopez Ekra, Regional Director of the International Organization for Migration (OIM) for West and Central Africa, occurred on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 28, 2026. This discussion in Niamey was part of Ms. Ekra's broader visit to Niger, which spanned from July 27 to July 30, 2026. Her regional tour shows the OIM's ongoing engagement with countries in the Sahel, focusing on cooperative approaches to migration management and diaspora contributions. The timing of the meeting within her visit allowed for direct exchanges following initial engagements in the country, ensuring that the dialogue was informed by a full understanding of the local context. The dialogue facilitated a strategic review of existing programs and the identification of new avenues for collaboration between the OIM and Nigerien authorities, solidifying the foundation for future joint initiatives.