On July 28 and 29, 2026, the city of Niamey is set to become the central hub for Nigeriens residing abroad during the second installment of the Nigerien Diaspora Forum. This significant gathering, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Nigeriens Abroad, aims to elevate the diaspora into a pivotal force for the nation’s economic and social advancement.
Under the distinguished patronage of the President of the Republic, General Abdourahamane Tiani, this event aligns seamlessly with the ongoing national “Refoundation” initiative championed by Nigerien authorities.
Empowering the diaspora for national progress
The 2026 forum will unfold at the prestigious Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Centre in Niamey, centered around the theme: « Contribution of the Nigerien diaspora to the economic and social development of the country in the context of the Refoundation ».
Through this forum, officials seek to establish a robust platform for dialogue, connecting Nigeriens living overseas with public institutions, technical and financial partners, and private sector stakeholders. The overarching goal is to harness the diaspora’s invaluable skills, expertise, and resources to accelerate the country’s national development trajectory.
Beyond mere discussions, the convention also endeavors to pinpoint concrete mechanisms that will encourage productive investments, facilitate knowledge transfer, and foster greater involvement of Nigeriens abroad in the nation’s transformative projects.
Two days of strategic discussions in Niamey
Over the course of two days, participants will engage in profound discussions regarding the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating the diaspora into Niger’s ongoing reconstruction efforts. Debates will specifically address strategies to strengthen the vital connections between skilled Nigeriens residing internationally and the country’s pressing development needs.
This forum therefore serves as a crucial platform for cultivating sustainable partnerships among public authorities, investors, entrepreneurs, and diaspora members, all within a framework of enduring collaboration.
Mobilizing talent for the Refoundation era
With this initiative, the government emphatically reiterates its commitment to positioning the diaspora as a strategic ally in the “Refoundation” process. Authorities are banking on the extensive experience, professional competencies, and investment capabilities of Nigeriens living abroad to bolster the nation’s ambitious economic and social objectives.
Slated to commence on July 28 at the Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Centre in Niamey, the Nigerien Diaspora Forum aims to fortify the bonds between Niger and its citizens settled beyond its borders, ultimately transforming their commitment into a powerful, sustained engine for national development.