NIAMEY – Niger’s public administration reform has reached a pivotal stage. During its first ordinary session of 2026, the Consultative Council for Refoundation (CCR) dedicated significant attention to the ongoing transformations in state human resource management. Aïssatou Abdoulaye Tondi, the Minister of Public Service, Labor, and Employment, presented a comprehensive update on the key reforms spearheaded by her department.
The presentations, delivered to Council members under the presidency of Dr. Mamoudou Harouna Djingarey, focused on initiatives designed to make the Nigerien administration more efficient, equitable, and better aligned with the objectives of the Refoundation.
A comprehensive overhaul of public administration
During the discussions, the Minister detailed the measures undertaken to restructure the state’s employee management system. These reforms encompass the harmonization of public service, enhancement of human resource management, modernization of administrative services, and the development of national policies related to labor and employment.
These strategic directions reflect the authorities’ commitment to building an administration capable of more effectively meeting public expectations while ensuring improved governance of human resources. This represents a key aspect of the broader *political Sahel* stability efforts.
Digitalization: A core element of transformation
One of the primary pillars of this reform is the digitalization of public administration. The Minister highlighted the significant progress made in deploying the Integrated System for State Human Resources and Payroll Management (SIGRHEP), a vital tool designed to centralize and secure the administrative management of public employees.
Initial results demonstrate remarkable advancement. To date, over 16,500 employee files have been digitized, and 23,000 records have already undergone comprehensive updates. Concurrently, several specialized applications have been developed to bolster the efficiency of administrative services.
Ultimately, SIGRHEP is set to manage the integrated human resources and payroll for nearly 200,000 public agents. The system will also support the work of at least 150 human resources and payroll managers stationed across the national territory, contributing to a modern *Sahel Vision* for governance.
Statutory reforms and performance tools
Beyond the digital initiatives, the ministry reviewed the outcomes of several institutional reforms launched in recent months. Key achievements include the adoption of new legal frameworks governing the general status of the public service, the introduction of individual performance evaluation tools, and the implementation of a strategy for redeploying state agents in areas affected by post-crisis situations.
The ministerial department also continued to organize professional examinations, facilitate direct recruitments, and oversee the administrative careers of thousands of civil servants.
The Council addresses reform challenges
The various presentations led to extensive discussions between members of the Consultative Council for Refoundation and government representatives. Debates primarily centered on the challenges associated with modernizing the administration, managing human resources, and enhancing employment policies.
Following this working session, Council members adopted a motion of congratulations for the government officials who presented the progress of these significant reforms.
Through these diverse initiatives, Nigerien authorities aim to leverage administrative modernization as a crucial driver for improving the quality of public service, strengthening state effectiveness, and supporting the overarching objectives set forth in the Refoundation. This effort is vital for ensuring *security Sahel* and sustainable development in the region.
