Niger-Morocco: Strategic Conference on Access to the Atlantic for Sahel Countries and an Integrated Africa

Niamey, December 12, 2025 - The National Center for Strategic and Security Studies (CNESS) and the Embassy of Morocco organized a conference on Friday, December 12, 2025, under the theme:

“The Royal Project to Facilitate Access to the Atlantic for Sahel Countries: Strategic and Logistical Challenges for an Integrated Africa.”

The meeting, part of ongoing cooperation between Niger and Morocco, brought together leading figures, including the Secretary General of the Presidency, ambassadors, representatives of international organizations, university rectors, secretaries general of ministries, officials from agencies attached to the Presidency, and experts.

The conference was chaired by Mr. Djibo Barikoye, Director General of Bilateral Relations, representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Upon assuming his duties, the Minister congratulated the CNESS and the Moroccan Embassy, emphasizing that "the theme of this conference is perfectly aligned with the objectives pursued by the Confederation of Sahel States and with the vision of the President of the Republic, Head of State, His Excellency General Abdourahamane Tiani, in this era of the Republic's Refounding."

The Chargé d'affaires ad interim of the Moroccan Embassy in Niger, Mr. Jaffar Debbarh, expressed his deep honor at participating in the organization of this conference with his colleagues from the CNESS. He added that the purpose of this meeting was to present the spirit, ambition, and challenges of this Royal Initiative, fully in line with the African Vision of the Kingdom of Morocco, as championed by His Majesty King Mohammed VI.

The Director of the CNESS, Colonel-Major Mahamadou Nouhou Bako, expressed pride that the CNESS was hosting this high-level meeting, declaring:

“The CNESS, as a strategic foresight and monitoring body, is tasked with informing debates, supporting decision-making, and producing forward-looking analyses on strategic and security issues, both nationally and internationally. Access to the Atlantic Ocean falls squarely within this mission, as it is not simply a matter of geography or infrastructure, but a global strategic issue that impacts regional stability, trade security, economic integration, and the prosperity of populations. It is a lever for regional cooperation, a catalyst for sustainable development, and a factor of resilience for the nations of the Sahel.”

Two communications were presented by Ambassador Illo Adani, Special Advisor to the President of the Republic of Niger, and Professor Mohamed Amine Balambo of Morocco, who emphasized the strategic and integrative nature of the Royal Project, as well as the logistical, port, energy, and security options for the stability and development of the region.