Niger: The National conferences for the reconstruction of the country, an inclusive dialogue for a better future
The National Assizes for the Refoundation of Niger began on Saturday, February 15, in Niamey, under the presidency of General Abdourahamane Tiani, the Head of State and President of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP). This landmark event gathers nearly 700 delegates from various sectors (institutions, civil society, regions, private sector, corporations) to discuss the duration and charter of the transition, as well as the national priorities and fundamental values that should guide the country’s refoundation.
In his opening speech, General Tiani emphasized the importance of these assizes as a moment for constructive exchange and not as a platform for personal ambitions or settling scores. He called on participants to focus on the general interest, putting aside divisions and selfishness. “These assizes must unite all Nigeriens around the common goals of national unity, social cohesion, justice, peace, and socio-economic progress,” he stated.
The Head of State also highlighted the necessity of learning from the past to build a better future. He urged Nigeriens to support this historic process, particularly within the framework of the Sahel States Alliance (AES), and to not remain on the sidelines of this transformative movement. “Every word and every action must reflect the sacrifices of our people and their legitimate expectations of a new beginning,” he added.
Initially scheduled after the coup of July 26, 2023, these assizes had been postponed due to the threats and embargo imposed on the country. Thanks to the resilience of the Nigerien people and the Defense and Security Forces, the necessary stability conditions have been restored to allow their holding. General Tiani called for vigilance to preserve this stability and counter attempts to destabilize the nation.
Ahead of these national assizes, regional consultations were organized across the country, allowing citizens to contribute to the debates on national challenges. A national commission, chaired by the chief of canton of Sinder, Dr. Mamoudou Djingarey, has been set up to oversee the work, structured around five thematic sub-commissions. These assizes represent a unique opportunity for Niger to reinvent itself, relying on the participation of all and laying the foundations for a sustainable and inclusive refoundation.
