• Niger and Italy aim to curb migration by creating local employment through structured cooperation.

• A $4.7 million youth entrepreneurship program underpins ongoing bilateral efforts.

• Italy’s new migration policy aligns with Niger’s push to retain its workforce.

The Nigerien government intends to align international cooperation with local job creation. This direction emerged from talks between Public Service, Labor and Employment Minister Aissatou Abdoulaye Tondi and Italian Ambassador to Niger Roberto Orlando on April 15 in Niamey.

According to an official statement, both parties explored prospects for strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly through funding opportunities for flagship projects led by the ministry. The “Managing Migration through Decent Work” program provides the framework for these discussions and gives them strategic weight.

The initiative rests on a simple premise. A young Nigerien who secures dignified work at home does not need to risk their life at sea. The government aims to replace outward migration with a structured domestic employment offer. Following the meeting, Ambassador Orlando reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to supporting Niger in implementing these reforms.

This support builds on an already established bilateral relationship on the ground. In June 2024, Italy, the International Organization for Migration, and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation jointly launched the third phase of the “Initiatives for Business Development” (IDEE Jeune) project in Niamey. The initiative carries a $4.7 million budget over 36 months and targets youth entrepreneurship and job creation. Last week’s meeting extends this momentum and elevates it to ministerial level.

A convergence of interests to turn into results

Behind the initiative lies a challenging social reality. According to the International Labour Organization, 23% of Nigeriens aged 15 to 29 are unemployed. In 2023, the National Employment Agency recorded 51,847 job seekers, marking a 6% increase from 2022.

In this context, the incentive to leave remains strong, and data confirms it. In February 2024, the International Organization for Migration recorded more than 327,000 individuals at Niger’s migration monitoring points, with nearly 40% moving the country, mainly toward Algeria and Libya. These routes often lead ultimately to the Mediterranean.

This collaboration takes shape as Italy reshapes its own migration policy. The Decreto Flussi 2026–2028, published in October 2025, provides nearly 500,000 work permits for non-European nationals over three years. Rome seeks skilled workers through legal channels, while Niamey seeks jobs for its youth. On paper, the equation benefits both sides.

Niger’s interior minister has described Italy as one of the few countries that remained alongside Niger after the events of July 26, 2023, praising its efforts to combat irregular migration and support young people. Migration routes do not close by decree. They diminish when a real alternative exists at home. Niger and Italy now aim to deliver that alternative together in practice.

Félicien Houindo Lokossou