Niger’s military government, in a bold move to assert national identity and cut colonial ties with France, has officially declared Hausa the new national language, replacing French, which had long held prominence due to the country’s colonial history.
The announcement was made through a new national charter released on March 31 and 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, particularly dominant in regions such as Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua.
With an estimated population of 26 million, the vast majority of Nigeriens speak Hausa, while only about three million—just 13 percent—are fluent in French.
In addition to Hausa, the charter also recognizes nine other local languages, including Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic, as “the spoken languages of Niger.”
The language shift stems from a national dialogue held in February, where the ruling military government garnered strong support.
General Abdourahamane Tiani, who seized power in the July 2023 coup that ousted civilian president Mohamed Bazoum, received approval to remain in office for five more years.
Since the coup, the junta has steadily distanced the country from its former colonial ruler, France.
Key actions include expelling French troops, severing diplomatic ties, and renaming roads and buildings previously bearing French names.
Niger’s move follows similar decisions by fellow former French colonies and military-led governments in Mali and Burkina Faso.
These nations have also withdrawn from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, a global body promoting the French language and culture.
With this language policy, Niger is signaling a clear pivot toward self-determination and cultural reclamation.
