The Algerian Bank in Senegal (ABS) is planning to open a new branch in Niamey, Niger’s capital, as part of Algeria’s bold strategy to strengthen its banking footprint across Africa, the bank’s CEO Abdelhafidh Haend told dzwatch exclusively.
Haend revealed that a formal accreditation request was submitted to Niger’s monetary authorities just days ago, with the branch expected to open by late 2026 or early 2027. A second branch in Côte d’Ivoire is also planned, which would transform ABS into a regional banking hub in West Africa.
The expansion aligns with major agreements signed between Algeria and Niger involving Sonelgaz, Sonatrach, and Algérie Télécom, opening vast cooperation horizons. ABS was founded with $100 million capital, jointly held by BNA, CPA, BEA, and BADR.
Meanwhile, Aboubacar Diallo, CEO of the Algerian Union Bank in Mauritania, told dzwatch that bilateral trade between Algeria and Mauritania surged to approximately $500 million last year, reflecting growing economic momentum between the two nations.
