Niger Declares Hausa As National Language, Breaks Away From French

In its continued resolve to erase traces of colonial symbols, the military-led government in Niger has declared Hausa as the country’s new national language, replacing French.

“The national language is Hausa” while “the working languages are English and French,” the junta stated in a new charter published on March 31 in a special edition of the government’s official journal.

Hausa is the most widely spoken language in Niger particularly in areas such as Maradi, Tahoua and Zinder.

Following the new charter, nine other local languages, including Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic, are now officially recognised as the spoken languages of Niger.

The charter emerged from a national conference held in February, which strengthened the ruling junta’s authority and granted its leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, the mandate to remain in power for the next five years.

Since seizing power in a July 2023 coup that removed civilian president Mohamed Bazoum, Niger’s ruling military government has cut diplomatic ties with Paris, expelled French troops, and renamed streets and landmarks that once carried French names.

Niger's recent decision mirrors the actions of its neighboring military regimes in Mali and Burkina Faso, both former French colonies. These countries have also severed ties with France and exited the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), a post-colonial organization similar to the Commonwealth.

It also underscores a growing trend in the region, where these countries are reevaluating their relationships with former colonial powers. 

Political analysts have observed the benefits of this move for the countries in the manner that, by expelling French troops, cutting diplomatic ties, and renaming French landmarks, these countries are asserting their independence as well as seeking alternative alliances. Niger, for instance, has strengthened ties with Russia, seeking military and strategic support in its fight against insurgent groups.

The latest decision to promote local languages and culture reaffirms its decisive stance to shift away from colonial legacies and influence.