• Authorities withdrew licenses from 14 operators and driving permits from 19 drivers

• The move targets refusals to transport fuel to Mali amid renewed shortages

• Niger says it aims to continue supporting its AES ally

Niger’s Ministry of Transport has revoked the licenses of 14 road haulage operators and withdrawn the driving permits of 19 drivers who refused to transport fuel to neighboring Mali, where many regions are facing shortages linked to a jihadist blockade, according to several consistent sources. The move underscores Niger authorities’ determination to continue supporting their ally within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Bamako had already experienced a severe fuel shortage in October and November 2025 due to a blockade imposed by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), a Salafist jihadist organization. At the time, oil-producing Niger transported 82 fuel tankers under military escort to Mali. Disruptions have resurfaced in recent days, with several flights canceled or suspended at Bamako airport because of a lack of aviation fuel.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges facing the transport sector in the region. Disruptions to goods movement and fuel supply have knock-on effects on related sectors, driving up logistics costs and contributing to higher inflation, with direct consequences for businesses and consumers.

The reasons behind the reluctance of some Niger transporters to serve Bamako have not been clearly established. According to some observers, security concerns may be a factor, as attacks on convoys by jihadist groups in Mali have previously been reported by the international press.

Henoc Dossa