Niger Republic Stands Firm On Its Adoption Of Hausa As National Language, Further Discards French

The military government of Niger Republic has insisted on retaining Hausa as its national language, thereby disregarding French, the country’s language since their colonial era, despite pressure to reverse the decision.

Recall that the change was enacted through the Refoundation Charter on March 31, 2025, under the leadership of General Abdourahamane Tiani, who has governed since a coup in July 2023.

Hausa, spoken by over 55% of Niger’s estimated 26 million people, is now the national language, while French and English have been reclassified as “working languages.” The charter also recognizes nine other local languages—Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, Arabic, and others—as “spoken languages of Niger.” Only about 13% of the population, roughly 3 million people, speak French, primarily in urban and educated circles.

This linguistic shift follows Niger’s expulsion of French troops in December 2023, reflecting a broader effort to reduce France’s influence after more than a century of colonial and post-colonial ties. The junta has framed the move as a step toward cultural sovereignty, aligning with similar anti-colonial sentiments in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, both of which have also distanced themselves from France following military takeovers.

The transition to Hausa builds on its widespread use across regions like Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua, where it has long served as a lingua franca. The policy marks a significant departure from Niger’s historical reliance on French in government, education, and legal systems, though practical implementation remains unclear given the country’s limited resources and ongoing security challenges, including a jihadist insurgency in the Sahel.