Niger's military-led government has announced the appointment of new ministers for mining and energy in a cabinet reshuffle aimed at splitting the former Ministry of Mines, Petroleum and Energy into separate entities, it was announced on Monday.
Mahaman Moustapha Barke Bako, who previously held the position of Minister of Mines, Petroleum and Energy, has been reassigned as Minister of Petroleum. Professor Amadou Haoua was appointed as the new Minister of Energy, while Colonel Ousmane Abarchi took over as Minister of Mines.
The decree outlining these changes was broadcast on state television without giving specific details of the restructuring.
While Niger is the world's largest producer of uranium, the inauguration of the Niger-Benin oil pipeline late last year is expected to boost its oil production to about 110,000 barrels per day, a significant increase from its current output of about 20,000 barrels per day.
This pipeline project is expected to facilitate the expansion of Niger's oil operations and provide opportunities for economic growth and development in the region.