Authorities in Dosso, southwestern Niger, have ordered the temporary suspension of nearly thirty money transfer agencies, citing serious security concerns linked to the financing of illicit activities and the need to tighten control over cross-border flows.
The directive, signed by Colonel-Major Bana Achassane, governor of the Dosso region, targets key operators including NITA and AMANA, affecting locations across the departments of Dosso, Doutchi, Birni, Gaya, and Loga.
Strategic points such as Bolbol and Lido in Dosso commune, Tombon Bouya in Doutchi, Kote Kote in Gaya, and Bakir Tombo in Loga are among those impacted.
This decision draws its legal basis from several frameworks, including the Transition Charter of the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Fatherland (CNSP), Law 98-31 concerning territorial organisation, and Decree 2025-009 appointing governors.
While the official decree refrains from detailing the precise nature of the threats, security officials indicate that the closures respond to risks around the financing of illicit activities, enhanced monitoring of cross-border transactions, and prevention of economic crimes.
The move has raised concerns about its potential impact on local economies. Money transfer agencies play a vital role in facilitating remittances from Nigerien migrant workers and sustaining trade with neighbouring Nigeria. Their closure could disrupt these critical financial flows and provoke unease among local business communities dependent on such services.
As authorities seek to strengthen security measures, balancing these imperatives with the economic wellbeing of affected communities will be key. The situation remains fluid, with local stakeholders closely watching for developments and possible government efforts to mitigate economic fallout.
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