Niger's Minister of Environment, Hydraulics and Sanitation, Colonel Abdoulaye Maizama, commenced a 72-hour working visit to the Diffa region on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, following a significant seizure of water birds victimized by poaching. Upon arrival, the minister visited the Brigade of the Environment and Military Equipment in Diffa, where two suspected poachers had been apprehended. The seizure included several bags containing the poached water birds. Colonel Maizama described the practice as "braconnage et d’atteinte grave à l’environnement, à la santé publique et aux ressources naturelles de la région" (poaching and a serious attack on the environment, public health, and natural resources). He stated, "Il s’agit d’une situation de braconnage. C’est une infraction à la loi puisque nous ne sommes pas en période où la chasse est ouverte."
Seizure Details and Methods
The recent seizure included 173 dendrocygnes and 16 armed ducks. Authorities stated that the suspected poachers allegedly employed chemical products, specifically poison mixed with rice, to attract and kill the birds. Colonel Abdoulaye Maizama, Niger's Minister of Environment, Hydraulics and Sanitation, stated that this method represents a major danger, particularly when used on water bodies and in fragile aquatic ecosystems. The minister insisted that the use of poison on a watercourse is strictly prohibited. He added that the prohibition extends to any other product that could contaminate a water body, showing the potential environmental and public health risks associated with such practices.
Minister's Enforcement Pledge
Colonel Abdoulaye Maizama, Niger's Minister of Environment, Hydraulics and Sanitation, instructed competent services to deepen investigations to identify and apprehend all perpetrators, co-perpetrators, accomplices, and potential receivers involved in the water bird poaching. The minister warned that all individuals implicated in these activities, including those receiving poached goods, will be brought before competent jurisdictions to answer for their actions. This directive shows a commitment to hold all parties accountable under the law.
The minister’s mission further aims to support law enforcement services in the region. A core objective is to strengthen public information and awareness regarding the severe consequences of poaching, the use of toxic products, and the broader destruction of ecosystems. This public outreach is intended to educate communities on the environmental and health risks associated with such illegal practices.
Official Support and Recognition
Colonel Abdoulaye Maizama praised the vigilance and professionalism demonstrated by environmental agents, acknowledging their collaboration with the Niger National Guard and other FDS (Defense and Security Forces). The minister conveyed congratulations and encouragement from the country's highest authorities, including the President of the Republic, Général d’Armée Abdourahamane Tiani, and Prime Minister M. Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine. He also extended recognition from the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) and the entire Government for the efforts against poaching.
Broader Environmental Concerns
The minister called upon local populations and natural resource users to adopt responsible behaviors key for preserving the region's diverse wildlife, fishery, and environmental resources. Colonel Abdoulaye Maizama emphasized the collective responsibility in safeguarding these critical assets for future generations. He noted that sustainable practices are essential to prevent further degradation of ecosystems and ensure the long-term viability of natural resources in the Diffa region. The minister's appeal showed the government's concern not only for immediate poaching incidents but also for the broader ecological health and resource management.