The agreement follows virtual discussions held with Nigerien authorities between December 9 2025 and February 10 2026 and is subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board, expected in March.
Completion of the ECF review would unlock $61 million to support Niger’s external financing needs. Approval of the RSF review would allow a further disbursement of $30 million.
The IMF projects Niger’s economic growth to remain robust at 6.9% in 2025 and 6.7% in 2026, supported by strong harvests. Consumer prices fell by 4.6% in 2025 and are expected to rise only moderately in 2026. However, risks remain tilted to the downside due to insecurity, climate shocks, tighter financing conditions and a possible decline in development assistance.
The fiscal deficit for 2025 is expected to remain broadly aligned with programme targets. In 2026, it is forecast to widen to 3.7% of gross domestic product as the government faces higher climate‑related spending needs, partly offset by planned tax reforms. The authorities have identified contingency measures to safeguard stability should financing conditions worsen and remain committed to prioritising concessional borrowing and lengthening domestic debt maturities.
The IMF said programme performance has been broadly satisfactory, with progress on clearing domestic arrears and meeting end‑June and end‑September 2025 benchmarks. Structural reforms continue, including reinstating public procurement oversight bodies, advancing adoption of the Treasury Single Account, and strengthening public financial management, governance and anti‑corruption measures.
Under the RSF, Niger has completed climate vulnerability assessments for key public investment projects and enhanced budget climate tagging as part of broader efforts to build resilience.
The mission held discussions with Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, senior finance officials, the regional central bank and development partners. The IMF team welcomed the authorities’ cooperation and commitment to reform.
–IMF/ChannelAfrica–
