Niger’s National Lottery gears up for 2026 digital transformation under Colonel Major Djibo
LONANI accelerates modernisation, expands access and amplifies social impact across Niger in 2026.
Niger.- The National Lottery of Niger (LONANI) is positioning itself for a decisive transformation in 2026, as the state-run operator accelerates plans to digitise its operations and expand access across the country under the leadership of Director-General Colonel Major Soumana Djibo.
The digital push follows a period of sharp financial growth. Turnover rose from FCFA54.3bn (€83m) in 2023 to FCFA73.544bn (€112m) in 2024, representing growth of 35 per cent. Projections for 2025 place revenues at approximately FCFA97bn (€148m).
Djibo’s title of Colonel Major reflects his senior military rank in Niger, a distinction he carries into his role as Director-General of LONANI. Reflecting on this growth, Djibo said, according to Le Sahel: “Since its creation, LONANI has played a key role in promoting a fair and responsible gaming environment, while generating revenues that support the socio-economic development of our country.”
Entering the new year on the back of this momentum, LONANI is preparing to expand its digital offerings in 2026. Parifoot is currently the lottery’s only online product, with plans under way to bring additional lottery games onto digital platforms as part of a wider modernisation drive aimed at improving access, transparency and competitiveness.
Growth, access, impact
Beyond revenue performance, LONANI has spent the past two years laying the groundwork for a broader modernisation effort. Since Djibo’s appointment in 2024, the lottery has renovated retail points and kiosks, many of which now operate using solar power. It has also upgraded server security and invested in staff training to support digital platform operations. A regional benchmarking mission provided insights into digital gaming models, marketing strategies and customer engagement practices that are now shaping LONANI’s rollout plans.
Djibo added: “The games of chance sector is currently experiencing exponential growth and mobilises a large share of national savings. In an increasingly digitalised world, it has become imperative for companies to adapt and develop in the online market.”
Looking ahead, LONANI’s ambitions for 2026 extend beyond digitisation alone. The lottery aims to exceed its 2025 revenue projections, expand nationwide player access and increase social contributions to schools, health centres and community projects. Monthly prize pay-outs and social programme distributions already exceed FCFA5bn (€7.6m), reinforcing the lottery’s role as a significant contributor to national development.
LONANI is also preparing to host the 2026 edition of the cross-border Tranche Commune Entente (TCE) lottery, a move expected to elevate Niger’s profile within the West African lottery ecosystem and strengthen the organisation’s regional standing.
As 2026 unfolds, attention will focus on LONANI’s ability to deliver its digital strategy, broaden access for players and sustain strong financial performance. Under the leadership of Djibo, the National Lottery of Niger is seeking to reshape the country’s gaming sector by balancing commercial growth with social responsibility at a pivotal moment in its evolution.
