The military-led government of Niger Republic has officially declared Hausa as the country’s new national language, replacing French. This marks a significant shift from Niger’s colonial past and reflects its growing push for independence from former French influence.
According to a new government charter published on March 31, Hausa has been designated as the national language, while English and French remain working languages.
Hausa is the most widely spoken language in Niger, dominating regions such as Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua. Across the country’s 26 million citizens, a vast majority understands Hausa. In contrast, only around 13% of the population—approximately three million people—speak French fluently.
The charter also recognizes nine other local languages as “spoken languages of Niger,” including Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic.
Breaking Away From French Influence
This move follows a national conference in February, which reinforced the ruling junta’s authority and extended the leadership of General Abdourahamane Tiani for another five years.
Since overthrowing civilian president Mohamed Bazoum in a July 2023 coup, Niger’s military government has steadily distanced itself from France. The country has expelled French troops, cut diplomatic ties, and renamed streets and landmarks that once bore French names.
Neighboring countries Mali and Burkina Faso—also former French colonies with military regimes—have taken similar steps, including withdrawing from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), a cultural body similar to the British Commonwealth.
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