Niger increases 2026 budget to 2,980 billion FCFA

The Nigerien government has approved a first rectification of the 2026 budget, increasing the total amount to 2,980.54 billion FCFA (approximately 5.3 billion USD). This represents a 2% increase from the initial projection of 2,922.22 billion FCFA.

Several factors necessitated this adjustment, including the need for additional funding for defense and security forces amid regional challenges. The revision also accounts for a government reshuffle, which involves the suppression of certain services previously attached to the Presidency and the Prime Minister's office, with their missions transferred to other ministries.

Furthermore, the budget incorporates the economic impact of fluctuating international crude oil prices caused by instability in the Middle East. To support economic recovery, the government plans to simplify the tax system, with a specific focus on developing the gold mining sector.