NIAMEY: Niger has signed a memorandum of understanding with Chinese state-owned oil giant China National Petroleum Corp (CNPC) worth $400 million linked to the sale of crude oil from its Agadem oilfield, Niger state television RTN reported late on Friday.
“China is a great friend to Niger; we can never say it enough,” Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine said at the signing ceremony, which was broadcast by RTN.
“This signature demonstrates the friendship … and fruitful cooperation between the two states,” Chinese ambassador Jiang Feng said.
In November, a CNPC-backed export pipeline project began, connecting the Agadem oilfield to Benin’s Cotonou port. This project enhances regional connectivity.
Previously, the West African country had a small oil refinery with capacity of around 20,000 bpd that mostly supplies Niger’s domestic fuel market.
Furthermore, the Crude Oil MOU between Niger and China holds broader implications for regional and global energy dynamics. As Africa’s newest oil-producing nation, Niger’s collaboration with China underscores the continent’s increasing role in the global energy landscape. Moreover, the partnership reflects China’s strategic investments in Africa’s energy sector as part of its Belt and Road Initiative. Additionally, the agreement highlights the growing influence of African nations in shaping global energy markets and fostering South-South cooperation. Overall, the signing of the Crude Oil MOU marks a significant step forward for Niger in leveraging its natural resources for economic growth and development, while also strengthening its ties with China in the energy sphere.
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