The protracted closure of the border between Bénin and Niger, a direct consequence of the military coup on July 26, 2023, has triggered significant economic repercussions across the region.

The sustained pressure from the Niger-Bénin border closure continues to weigh heavily on Niger’s economy. For many months, businesses and transport companies have been compelled to implement urgent adaptations simply to sustain their operations.

Nigeria: the costly alternative 

The Bénin corridor historically served as one of Niger’s most vital supply routes. With its closure, numerous traders were forced to pivot towards Nigeria, an alternative that proved to be longer, considerably more expensive, and often fraught with risks.

“We have truly been impacted in every sense – emotionally, commercially, and financially. This is a harsh reality. For a while, we benefited from the detour through Nigeria. But even that wasn’t without its risks, especially financial ones. However, I believe all of that is now behind us,” explained Yacouba Dan Maradi, a Nigerien economic operator, reflecting on the challenges.

Profitability slashed

For hydrocarbon transporters, the difficulties have been equally profound. Delivery times have stretched dramatically, severely eroding the profitability of their operations.

Mody Hassane, Secretary General of the hydrocarbon transporters’ union, painted a grim picture of the economic situation for drivers.

According to Hassane, “the border closure has deeply affected our economy in the transport sector. In the past, we, as drivers, would complete two to three trips per month. Now, it has become common for a single trip to take approximately two to three months. We’re no longer talking about economics; we’re talking about sheer losses.”

With escalating logistical costs and a significant deceleration in commercial exchanges, Niger’s economy continues to grapple with the fallout from the closure of its border with Bénin. 

Today, both traders and transporters hold out hope for a lasting normalization of exchanges between Niger and Bénin. Their aim is to reinvigorate economic activity and restore the regular flow of goods and merchandise.