Niger introduced temporary restrictions on fuel distribution on Monday, October 19, 2026, amid reports of prolonged queues and shortages in Niamey. The interior, petroleum, commerce and industry authorities announced that ordinary public sales would cease overnight unless a station had official authorisation to operate. (anp.ne)
Deliveries take priority overnight
According to the petroleum ministry’s announcement, carried by the Nigerien Press Agency, the restrictions are intended to give suppliers—particularly state distributor SONIDEP—more space to replenish stations safely and improve availability at the pump. Designated duty stations are supposed to preserve overnight access, with their locations and operating arrangements communicated through official channels. (anp.ne)
The measures also prohibit selling fuel in containers outside filling stations in localities that have at least one station. Defence and security forces have been instructed to enforce the rules. (anp.ne)
A response to an existing supply problem
October 19 reporting described motorists waiting for lengthy periods in the capital, despite the commerce ministry having circulated a list of stations with fuel available. The new rules reorganise distribution; they do not, by themselves, establish that the underlying shortage has been resolved. (b-economik.com)