Niger Declares Hausa as National Language, Moves Further from French Colonial Legacy
In a bold cultural and political shift, Niger’s military government has officially adopted Hausa as the national language, replacing French in a symbolic break from its colonial past with France. The announcement was detailed in a new national charter, published on March 31.
The charter states:
“The national language is Hausa,” while “the working languages are English and French.”
This change marks another step in Niger’s growing anti-French stance since the military coup in July 2023, which ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Since then, the junta has cut ties with France, expelled French troops, and renamed streets and public places previously bearing French names.
Hausa is already the most widely spoken language in Niger, especially across the regions of Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua. With a population of 26 million, only around 13% (just over 3 million people) speak French, a stark contrast that highlights the junta’s push to align governance more closely with the linguistic realities of everyday citizens.
The charter also recognizes nine other indigenous languages — including Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic as “spoken languages of Niger.”
Niger’s move follows similar actions by Mali and Burkina Faso, with whom it has formed a political and military alliance. All three countries, now governed by military juntas, have withdrawn from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), a France-led institution promoting French language and culture in former colonies.
The charter also cements General Abdourahamane Tiani’s leadership, granting him authority to stay in power for the next five years a decision stemming from a national conference held in February.
This language change is more than symbolic. it reflects a strategic realignment away from post-colonial institutions and toward greater national identity, self-determination, and regional autonomy. As Niger asserts its sovereignty, the shift from French to Hausa marks a powerful statement in redefining its future.