Niger Junta’s Controversial Shift: French Replaced by Hausa As National Language

This announcement was made in a new charter released on March 31, which was published in a special edition of the government’s official journal. The document states, “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 regions of Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua. The majority of Niger’s 26 million citizens are fluent in Hausa, whereas only about three million people—approximately 13 percent—speak French.

The charter also formally acknowledges nine other indigenous languages, including Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic, as “spoken languages of Niger.”

This linguistic change follows a national consultation held in February, which further bolstered support for the military-led government. During this event, junta leader General Abdourahamane Tiani was granted approval to remain in power for an additional five years.

Since taking control in a coup in July 2023, which ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, Niger’s junta has made significant moves to sever ties with France, including expelling French troops, ending diplomatic relations, and renaming streets and buildings that previously carried French names.

Niger’s actions are part of a broader regional trend. Neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, both under military rule and former French colonies, are taking similar steps, including withdrawing from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, a group that fosters cooperation among French-speaking countries.