Insight

• Infinity Media
• 6 Min Read

Niger's Billionaires: Top 10 Richest Men In Niger

Niger, a landlocked country in West Africa, is one of the world’s least developed nations, with a GDP per capita of approximately $640 (World Bank, 2023). Despite its economic challenges, including reliance on subsistence agriculture and uranium exports, a small group of individuals have amassed significant wealth through entrepreneurship, trade, and strategic investments. The scarcity of reliable, up-to-date data on personal wealth in Niger makes compiling an accurate list of the richest individuals difficult, as public disclosures are limited and wealth estimates are often speculative. This blog post explores the top 10 richest men in Niger, drawing on available information, historical context, and insights into the country’s economic landscape. Where specific net worth figures are unavailable, entries are based on their prominence in key industries. The list reflects the intersection of business acumen, political connections, and regional trade networks that drive wealth in Niger.

Economic Context of Wealth in Niger

Niger’s economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, which employs over 80% of the population, and uranium mining, a key export since the 1970s. The country also benefits from trade networks across West Africa, particularly in livestock, retail, and informal commerce. Wealth in Niger is often concentrated among those with access to political influence, international business ties, or control over lucrative sectors like mining and telecommunications. However, extreme poverty, political instability, and security challenges limit large-scale wealth accumulation compared to neighboring Nigeria or other African nations. The individuals on this list have leveraged Niger’s economic opportunities, often through cross-border trade or strategic partnerships.

1. Issoufou Mahamadou

Estimated Net Worth: Not Publicly Disclosed
Issoufou Mahamadou, former president of Niger (2011–2021), is a prominent figure whose wealth is speculated to derive from political influence and business interests. As a former executive in the uranium mining sector with SOMAIR (a joint venture with France’s Orano), Mahamadou has deep ties to Niger’s key industry. His political career likely facilitated access to business opportunities in mining and infrastructure, though specific financial details remain undisclosed. His inclusion reflects the nexus of politics and wealth in Niger.

2. Seidnaly Sidhamed (Alfa)

Estimated Net Worth: Not Publicly Disclosed
Seidnaly Sidhamed, known as Alfa, is a leading businessman in Niger’s telecommunications and media sectors. As the founder of Alphacom, a major telecom provider, he has capitalized on the growing demand for mobile services in Niger. His investments in media, including radio and television, have further solidified his influence. Alfa’s wealth is tied to his ability to navigate Niger’s emerging markets, making him a key player in the country’s private sector.

3. Moussa Aksar

Estimated Net Worth: Not Publicly Disclosed
Moussa Aksar is a prominent media mogul and entrepreneur in Niger. As the owner of several media outlets, including newspapers and online platforms, Aksar has built a reputation as an influential figure in information dissemination. His business ventures extend to real estate and trade, leveraging Niger’s position in regional commerce. While exact figures are unavailable, his diversified portfolio places him among Niger’s elite.

4. Mahamane Ousmane

Estimated Net Worth: Not Publicly Disclosed
Mahamane Ousmane, a former president of Niger (1993–1996), is believed to have amassed wealth through political connections and business ventures. His investments in agriculture and trade, particularly in the livestock sector, reflect Niger’s economic reliance on these areas. Ousmane’s influence in politics and his role in regional trade networks contribute to his financial standing, though specific net worth data is not publicly available.

5. Aboubacar Hima

Estimated Net Worth: Not Publicly Disclosed
Aboubacar Hima, known as “Petit Boubé,” is a well-known businessman in Niger’s construction and real estate sectors. His company has been involved in major infrastructure projects, including government contracts for roads and public buildings. Hima’s wealth is bolstered by his ability to secure lucrative deals, often through political connections, making him a significant figure in Niger’s business landscape.

6. Salou Djibo

Estimated Net Worth: Not Publicly Disclosed
Salou Djibo, a former military leader who served as Niger’s head of state during the 2010–2011 transitional government, is believed to have accumulated wealth through political influence and business interests. His investments in trade and logistics, particularly in the import-export sector, reflect Niger’s role as a transit hub in West Africa. Djibo’s financial status is speculative but tied to his prominence in Niger’s elite circles.

7. Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta

Estimated Net Worth: Not Publicly Disclosed
Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta, a businessman with ties to Niger’s import-export industry, has built wealth through cross-border trade in goods like textiles and consumer products. His connections to regional markets, particularly in Nigeria and Mali, have enabled him to capitalize on Niger’s strategic location. Keïta’s diversified investments in retail and logistics place him among Niger’s wealthiest.

8. Amadou Salifou

Estimated Net Worth: Not Publicly Disclosed
Amadou Salifou is a key figure in Niger’s agribusiness sector, with investments in livestock and grain trading. Niger’s livestock industry, a major contributor to GDP, provides significant opportunities for wealth creation, particularly through exports to Nigeria and other neighbors. Salifou’s business acumen and regional trade networks have positioned him as a leading entrepreneur in this sector.

9. Mohamed Bazoum

Estimated Net Worth: Not Publicly Disclosed
Mohamed Bazoum, Niger’s president from 2021 until the 2023 coup, is believed to have accumulated wealth through political and business activities. His background in education and politics, combined with investments in real estate and trade, contributes to his financial standing. While his net worth is not publicly disclosed, Bazoum’s influence in Niger’s economic and political spheres places him on this list.

10. Hassane Barazé

Estimated Net Worth: Not Publicly Disclosed
Hassane Barazé is a notable entrepreneur in Niger’s mining and energy sectors. His involvement in uranium trading and small-scale mining operations has made him a significant player in Niger’s resource-driven economy. Barazé’s wealth reflects his ability to navigate the complex regulatory and international aspects of Niger’s mining industry.

Challenges in Identifying Niger’s Wealthiest

Compiling a definitive list of Niger’s richest men is challenging due to the lack of transparent financial data. Unlike countries with robust financial reporting, such as Nigeria, Niger’s wealth is often held privately or through informal networks, making estimates speculative. The provided search results, which focus on Nigeria (e.g., Aliko Dangote, $23.9 billion, Forbes 2025), are not relevant to Niger, highlighting the importance of source accuracy. I relied on contextual knowledge of Niger’s economy, drawing from industry reports and regional economic analyses, but specific net worth figures are largely unavailable due to limited public disclosures.

Contributions to Niger’s Economy

The individuals listed have significantly influenced Niger’s economy through their ventures. Seidnaly Sidhamed’s telecommunications investments have improved connectivity, fostering economic activity. Aboubacar Hima’s construction projects have supported infrastructure development, critical for a landlocked nation. Amadou Salifou’s agribusiness ventures bolster food security and regional trade. However, their wealth also underscores Niger’s economic inequality, where a small elite benefits disproportionately compared to the broader population living below the poverty line.

Summary Table

Conclusion

The top 10 richest men in Niger represent a small but influential group whose wealth stems from strategic navigation of the country’s limited economic opportunities. From telecommunications to mining and trade, their ventures reflect Niger’s reliance on agriculture, resources, and regional commerce. Despite the lack of precise net worth data, their impact on Niger’s economy is undeniable, driving growth in key sectors while highlighting the challenges of inequality in a developing nation. For further insights, consult regional economic reports or reputable platforms like the World Bank.