The Collectif des fournisseurs d’accès Internet communautaires du Niger (CFAIC-Niger) called for adapted regulation on Sunday, September 20, 2026, addressing concerns related to Wifi Zone operations. During a meeting, CFAIC-Niger presented several issues and proposals to authorities, according to the group. These included the use of necessary equipment, study fees, annual royalties, and certain technical limitations. CFAIC-Niger also requested a six-month period for operators to prepare and comply with any new provisions. The organization stated its disassociation from "any insult, any misinformation and any approach aiming to unnecessarily disturb public opinion or to divert our collective fight for personal interests."
Sector's Regulatory Birth
M. Hamadou Ali David Malik serves as the president of CFAIC-Niger, the organization advocating for Wifi Zone providers. The sector's regulatory framework in Niger was established with the adoption of order n°000034 on June 30, 2026. This order outlines the conditions for providing Wifi Zone services across the country. CFAIC-Niger considers this decree the "birth certificate" for Wifi Zone activity in Niger, marking its formal recognition and regulation. The collective, representing "Wifizoners from the eight regions of Niger," has publicly expressed its support for the President of the Republic, General Abdourahamane Tiani, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP), and the Government. This expression of support shows the collective's commitment to working within the established national framework.
Concerns Over New Rules
The recently adopted order n°000034 on June 30, 2026, officially inscribes Wifi Zone activity within a regulatory framework under a free entry regime, contingent upon declaration. This signifies a significant step towards formalizing the sector. CFAIC-Niger has been actively engaged since September 5, 2025, pursuing what it describes as a "diplomatic, responsible and scientific" approach to secure recognition, regulation, and protection for the Wifi Zone sector. This long-term engagement notes the collective's sustained efforts to shape the regulatory landscape. The collective met with the Ministry in charge of Communication and New Technologies of Information on August 13, 2026, to discuss these matters. This meeting represented a key step in their ongoing dialogue with governmental bodies.
During this meeting, CFAIC-Niger voiced concerns regarding the conditions of the new regulation, indicating that some provisions have caused apprehension among providers. The collective presented "several concerns and proposals emanating from its base, notably on the use of equipment necessary for the operation of Wifi Zones, file study fees, annual royalties, certain technical limitations, as well as the need for a six-month period allowing operators to prepare and conform to the new provisions," according to a statement from CFAIC-Niger. These specific points of contention reflect the practical challenges operators foresee under the new rules. The organization also reiterated its stance, stating it "disassociates itself from any insult, any misinformation and any approach aiming to unnecessarily disturb public opinion or to divert our collective fight for personal interests." This statement emphasizes their commitment to a constructive and principled approach to advocacy.
Call for Ground-Level Adaptation
The Wifi Zone sector significantly impacts young people who derive their livelihoods from this activity, the families dependent on it, and communities for whom Wifi Zones offer an accessible internet connection. This broad impact shows the importance of a well-adapted regulatory framework. CFAIC-Niger affirmed its expectation to be involved in future discussions regarding the sector's development. This involvement is deemed key for ensuring that regulations are practical and reflect the realities on the ground. The Authority for Regulation of Electronic Communications and Post (ARCEP) was present during the August 13, 2026 meeting where these issues were discussed. ARCEP's presence indicates the regulatory body's engagement in the ongoing dialogue with providers.
CFAIC-Niger condemned events on August 28 and 29, 2026, expressing satisfaction at the failure of what it described as a destabilization attempt. This condemnation reinforces the collective's stated commitment to stability and a constructive approach. The collective reiterated its commitment to a constructive approach, stating it "disassociates itself from any insult, any misinformation and any approach aiming to unnecessarily disturb public opinion or to divert our collective fight for personal interests." This position aligns with the organization's earlier presentation of "several concerns and proposals emanating from its base, notably on the use of equipment necessary for the operation of Wifi Zones, file study fees, annual royalties, certain technical limitations, as well as the need for a six-month period allowing operators to prepare and conform to the new provisions." The collective's consistent message notes its focus on practical solutions and its rejection of disruptive tactics, aiming to foster an environment conducive to the sustainable growth of the Wifi Zone sector in Niger.