By: ThinkBusiness Africa
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) said on Wednesday, that it has reached a staff-level agreement with Nigerien authorities, clearing the way for approximately $91 million in funding. The decision follows the completion of the eighth review under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and the fourth review under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).
The agreement comes at a critical juncture for Niger as it navigates a complex transition under its military-led government and strengthens its ties within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
The total disbursement is split into two specialized financial instruments designed to address both immediate fiscal needs and long-term structural challenges.
Approximately $61 million (SDR 43.8 million) under ECF to support macroeconomic stability and help meet external financing requirements. And under RSF, approximately $30 million (SDR 21.7 million) is dedicated to bolstering climate resilience and supporting sustainable development initiatives.
Despite a “challenging security environment” and recurring “climate shocks,” the IMF team, led by Ms. Izabela Karpowicz, noted that Niger’s economic fundamentals remain surprisingly robust.
GDP Growth projected at 6.7% for 2026, driven largely by the expansion of the oil sector and a favorable agricultural harvest.
Inflation which saw a decline of 4.6% in 2025, are expected to rise only moderately in the coming year.
Fiscal Deficit is projected to widen temporarily to 3.7% of GDP in 2026, reflecting the government’s increased spending on climate adaptation and security.
The agreement is now subject to formal approval by the IMF Executive Board, with a meeting scheduled for March 2026. Upon approval, the funds will be made available immediately to support the national budget.
