Niger’s military-led government has officially declared Hausa as the country’s new national language, stepping away from its colonial legacy where French held a dominant role.
The announcement was made in a new charter released on March 31, published in a special edition of the government’s official journal.
According to the charter, “The national language is Hausa,” while “the working languages are English and French.”
Hausa is already the most widely spoken language in Niger, especially in the Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua regions. Out of the country’s 26 million people, most understand and speak Hausa, while only about 13%—around three million—can speak French.
The new document also recognises nine other local languages, such as Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic, as “the spoken languages of Niger.”
This language change comes after a national meeting held in February, where the military government gained more public support. During the event, General Abdourahamane Tiani, who leads the junta, was given the green light to remain in power for another five years.
Since seizing power in a coup in July 2023 that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, the military government has been distancing the country from France. These steps include expelling French troops, cutting diplomatic ties, and renaming roads and buildings that previously carried French names.
Niger’s move follows a broader trend among former French colonies with military governments. Countries like Mali and Burkina Faso have taken similar actions, including withdrawing from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie—a body that promotes cooperation among French-speaking nations.
