According to a new charter published in the official journal on March 31, the national language is now Hausa, while both English and French remain the working languages
By Titilope Adako
Niger – Niger’s junta has officially adopted Hausa as the national language, replacing French, marking a decisive step away from its former colonial ties with France.
This shift comes after the military’s overthrow of civilian president Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023, followed by the expulsion of French soldiers and the renaming of streets and monuments that previously carried French names.
According to a new charter published in the official journal on March 31, the national language is now Hausa, while both English and French remain the working languages.
The charter also notes that Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso—both former French colonies under military rule—has left the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), a body that promotes French language and culture.
Hausa, the most widely spoken language in Niger, is predominant in the central-southern regions, including Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua in the west.
While only about 13% of the population speaks French, approximately 26 million people call Niger home.
In addition to Hausa, nine other languages, including Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic, are now recognized as the country’s spoken languages.
The decision was part of a broader national conference held in February, which further consolidated the junta’s power.
This conference authorised General Abdourahamane Tiani, the junta leader, to remain in office for an additional five years.
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