Niger Republic Declares Hausa as National Language, Dumps French

Niger's military government has officially adopted Hausa as the country's new national language, marking a significant departure from its colonial legacy where French held prominence.

The announcement was made in a new national charter released on March 31 and published in a special edition of the government's official journal.

According to the document, “The national language is Hausa,” while “the working languages are English and French.”

Hausa is already the most widely spoken language in Niger, particularly across the Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua regions. Of the country’s estimated 26 million citizens, the majority understand and speak Hausa, whereas only around three million people—roughly 13 percent—can speak French.

The revised charter also recognizes nine additional local languages, including Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic, categorizing them as “the spoken languages of Niger.”

The language policy shift follows a national conference held in February, during which the military government received renewed backing. General Abdourahamane Tiani, leader of the ruling junta, was granted a five-year extension to remain in power.

Since seizing control in a July 2023 coup that ousted former President Mohamed Bazoum, Niger’s military rulers have steadily distanced the country from France. Their measures include the withdrawal of French troops, severance of diplomatic ties, and the renaming of streets and public buildings that previously bore French names.

Niger’s move mirrors similar actions by Mali and Burkina Faso—two other former French colonies under military rule. These nations have also exited the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, a global body that promotes cooperation among French-speaking countries.