NIAMEY, Niger — Niger is stepping up efforts to expand financial services beyond major urban centres with a new phase of the “1 Commune, 1 Commercial Bank” programme.

The initiative, launched on October 5, is designed to increase the presence of commercial banking services across Niger’s communes and improve access to formal financial services for local communities and businesses.

The programme is expected to support financial inclusion, local entrepreneurship and economic activity, particularly in areas where access to conventional banking remains limited.

Greater banking coverage can also make it easier for small businesses and entrepreneurs to access payment services, savings products and potential financing while reducing the distance communities must travel to conduct formal financial transactions.

The expansion comes as Niger continues to seek stronger domestic economic activity and broader participation in the formal financial system.

Expanding the banking network could provide an important boost to local commerce by bringing financial services closer to entrepreneurs, traders and households across the country.