Niger
AfricaNG October 01, 2025
Background
Nomadic peoples from the Saharan north and agriculturalists from the south settled present-day Niger. The Taureg kingdom of Takedda was one of the largest kingdoms in the north and played a prominent role in regional trade in the 14th century. In the south, the primary ethnic groups were the Songhai-Zarma in the west, the Hausa in the center, and the Kanuri in the east. When European colonizers arrived in the 19th century, the region was an assemblage of disparate local kingdoms.
In the late 19th century, the British and French agreed to partition the middle regions of the Niger River, and France began its conquest of what would become the colony of Niger. France experienced determined local resistance -- particularly during the Tuareg uprising (1916-1917) -- but established a colonial administration in 1922.
After achieving independence from France in 1960, Niger experienced single-party or military rule until 1991, when political pressure forced General Ali SAIBOU to allow multiparty elections. Political infighting and democratic backsliding led to coups in 1996 and 1999. In 1999, military officers restored democratic rule and held elections that brought Mamadou TANDJA to power. TANDJA was reelected in 2004 and spearheaded a 2009 constitutional amendment allowing him to extend his presidential term. In 2010, military officers led another coup that deposed TANDJA. ISSOUFOU Mahamadou was elected in 2011 and reelected in 2016. In 2021, BAZOUM Mohamed won the presidential election, marking Niger’s first transition from one democratically elected president to another. Nonetheless, a military junta led by General Abdourahamane TIANI once again seized power in July 2023, detaining President BAZOUM and announcing the creation of a National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP).
Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world with minimal government services and insufficient funds to develop its resource base. It is ranked fourth to last in the world on the UN Development Program's Human Development Index of 2023/2024. The largely agrarian and subsistence-based economy is frequently disrupted by extended droughts common to the Sahel region of Africa. The Nigerien Government continues its attempts to diversify the economy through increased oil production and mining projects. In addition, Niger is facing increased security concerns on its borders from various external threats including insecurity in Libya, spillover from the conflict and terrorism in Mali, and violent extremism in northeastern Nigeria.
Geographic coordinates
16 00 N, 8 00 E
Natural hazards
recurring droughts
Area - comparative
slightly less than twice the size of Texas
Environmental issues
overgrazing; soil erosion; deforestation; desertification; contaminated water; inadequate potable water; wildlife populations (such as elephant, hippopotamus, giraffe, and lion) threatened by poaching and habitat destruction
International environmental agreements
Party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands
Signed, but not ratified: None of the selected agreements
Signed, but not ratified: None of the selected agreements
Climate
desert; mostly hot, dry, dusty; tropical in extreme south
Coastline
0 km (landlocked)
Land boundaries
Total: 5,834 km
Border countries (7): Algeria 951 km; Benin 277 km; Burkina Faso 622 km; Chad 1,196 km; Libya 342 km; Mali 838 km; Nigeria 1,608 km
Border countries (7): Algeria 951 km; Benin 277 km; Burkina Faso 622 km; Chad 1,196 km; Libya 342 km; Mali 838 km; Nigeria 1,608 km
Land use
Agricultural land: 36.8% (2022 est.)
Arable land: 14% (2022 est.)
Permanent crops: 0.1% (2022 est.)
Permanent pasture: 22.7% (2022 est.)
Forest: 0.8% (2022 est.)
Other: 62.4% (2022 est.)
Arable land: 14% (2022 est.)
Permanent crops: 0.1% (2022 est.)
Permanent pasture: 22.7% (2022 est.)
Forest: 0.8% (2022 est.)
Other: 62.4% (2022 est.)
Maritime claims
none (landlocked)
Natural resources
uranium, coal, iron ore, tin, phosphates, gold, molybdenum, gypsum, salt, petroleum
Geography - note
landlocked; one of the hottest countries in the world; northern four-fifths is desert, southern one-fifth is savanna that is suitable for livestock and limited agriculture
Terrain
predominately desert plains and sand dunes; flat to rolling plains in south; hills in north
Location
Western Africa, southeast of Algeria
Map references
Africa
Irrigated land
2,881 sq km (2022)
Total renewable water resources
34,050,000,000 cubic meters (2022 est.)
Population distribution
majority of the populace is located in the southernmost extreme of the country along the border with Nigeria and Benin, as shown in this population distribution map
Elevation
Highest point: Idoukal-n-Taghes 2,022 m
Lowest point: Niger River 200 m
Mean elevation: 474 m
Lowest point: Niger River 200 m
Mean elevation: 474 m
Major aquifers
Lake Chad Basin, Lullemeden-Irhazer Basin, Murzuk-Djado Basin
Major watersheds (area sq km)
Atlantic Ocean drainage: Niger (2,261,741 sq km)
Internal (endorheic basin) drainage: Lake Chad (2,497,738 sq km)
Internal (endorheic basin) drainage: Lake Chad (2,497,738 sq km)
Major lakes (area sq km)
Fresh water lake(s): Lake Chad (endorheic lake shared with Chad, Nigeria, and Cameroon) - 10,360-25,900 sq km
Note - area varies by season and year to year
Note - area varies by season and year to year
Major rivers (by length in km)
Niger (shared with Guinea [s], Mali, Benin, and Nigeria [m]) - 4,200 km
Note: [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Note: [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Area
Total : 1.267 million sq km
Land: 1,266,700 sq km
Water: 300 sq km
Land: 1,266,700 sq km
Water: 300 sq km
Age structure
0-14 years: 49.5% (male 6,567,460/female 6,463,877)
15-64 years: 47.8% (male 6,146,355/female 6,451,574)
65 years and over: 2.7% (2024 est.) (male 342,388/female 371,130)
15-64 years: 47.8% (male 6,146,355/female 6,451,574)
65 years and over: 2.7% (2024 est.) (male 342,388/female 371,130)
Sex ratio
At birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.92 male(s)/female
Total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
0-14 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.92 male(s)/female
Total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Literacy
Total population: 35.6% (2022 est.)
Male: 47.9% (2022 est.)
Female: 25.7% (2022 est.)
Male: 47.9% (2022 est.)
Female: 25.7% (2022 est.)
Nationality
Noun: Nigerien(s)
Adjective: Nigerien
Adjective: Nigerien
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
Total: 6 years (2017 est.)
Male: 7 years (2017 est.)
Female: 6 years (2017 est.)
Male: 7 years (2017 est.)
Female: 6 years (2017 est.)
Urbanization
Urban population: 17.1% of total population (2023)
Rate of urbanization: 4.72% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Rate of urbanization: 4.72% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Drinking water source
Improved:
Urban: 88.3% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 40.9% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 48.9% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 11.7% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 59.1% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 51.1% of population (2022 est.)
Urban: 88.3% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 40.9% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 48.9% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 11.7% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 59.1% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 51.1% of population (2022 est.)
Major urban areas - population
1.437 million NIAMEY (capital) (2023)
Physician density
0.04 physicians/1,000 population (2023)
Mother's mean age at first birth
18.5 years (2012 est.)
Note: Data represents median age at first birth among women 20-49
Note: Data represents median age at first birth among women 20-49
Dependency ratios
Total dependency ratio: 109.1 (2024 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 103.4 (2024 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 5.7 (2024 est.)
Potential support ratio: 17.7 (2024 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 103.4 (2024 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 5.7 (2024 est.)
Potential support ratio: 17.7 (2024 est.)
Sanitation facility access
Improved:
Urban: 81.9% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 15.2% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 26.4% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 18.1% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 84.8% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 73.6% of population (2022 est.)
Urban: 81.9% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 15.2% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 26.4% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 18.1% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 84.8% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 73.6% of population (2022 est.)
Ethnic groups
Hausa 53.1%, Zarma/Songhai 21.2%, Tuareg 11%, Fulani (Peuhl) 6.5%, Kanuri 5.9%, Gurma 0.8%, Arab 0.4%, Tubu 0.4%, other/unavailable 0.9% (2006 est.)
Religions
Muslim 95.5%, ethnic religionist 4.1%, Christian 0.3%, agnostics and other 0.1% (2020 est.)
Languages
Hausa, Zarma, French (official), Fufulde, Tamashek, Kanuri, Gurmancema, Tagdal
Note: Represents the most-spoken languages; Niger has 10 national languages: Arabic, Buduma, Fulfuldé, Guimancema, Hausa, Kanuri, Sonay-Zarma, Tamajaq, Tassawaq, and Tubu
Note: Represents the most-spoken languages; Niger has 10 national languages: Arabic, Buduma, Fulfuldé, Guimancema, Hausa, Kanuri, Sonay-Zarma, Tamajaq, Tassawaq, and Tubu
Health expenditure
5.8% of GDP (2021)
7.1% of national budget (2022 est.)
7.1% of national budget (2022 est.)
Hospital bed density
0.3 beds/1,000 population (2020 est.)
Gross reproduction rate
3.27 (2024 est.)
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
80.3% (2023 est.)
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
Total: 0.3% (2024 est.)
Male: 0.4% (2024 est.)
Female: 0.2% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Male: 0.4% (2024 est.)
Female: 0.2% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Net migration rate
-0.6 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Median age
Total: 15.2 years (2024 est.)
Male: 14.9 years
Female: 15.6 years
Male: 14.9 years
Female: 15.6 years
Maternal mortality ratio
350 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Total fertility rate
6.64 children born/woman (2024 est.)
Population
Total: 26,342,784 (2024 est.)
Male: 13,056,203
Female: 13,286,581
Male: 13,056,203
Female: 13,286,581
Infant mortality rate
Total: 64.3 deaths/1,000 live births (2024 est.)
Male: 69.2 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 59.2 deaths/1,000 live births
Male: 69.2 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 59.2 deaths/1,000 live births
Tobacco use
Total: 7.5% (2025 est.)
Male: 13.7% (2025 est.)
Female: 1.2% (2025 est.)
Male: 13.7% (2025 est.)
Female: 1.2% (2025 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
5.5% (2016)
Death rate
9.5 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Birth rate
46.6 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight
34.6% (2022)
Alcohol consumption per capita
Total: 0.11 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 0.04 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 0.01 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 0.06 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 0 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 0.04 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 0.01 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 0.06 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 0 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Life expectancy at birth
Total population: 60.9 years (2024 est.)
Male: 59.3 years
Female: 62.5 years
Male: 59.3 years
Female: 62.5 years
Education expenditure
4.1% of GDP (2023 est.)
12.8% national budget (2023 est.)
12.8% national budget (2023 est.)
Population growth rate
3.66% (2024 est.)
Total water withdrawal
Municipal: 193.247 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Industrial: 38.654 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Agricultural: 2.351 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Industrial: 38.654 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Agricultural: 2.351 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Waste and recycling
Municipal solid waste generated annually: 1.866 million tons (2024 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 20.3% (2022 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 20.3% (2022 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
59.5 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
3.132 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: 622,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 2.457 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From consumed natural gas: 52,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: 622,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 2.457 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From consumed natural gas: 52,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
1.772 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Kathleen FITZGIBBON (since 2 December 2023)
Embassy: BP 11201, Niamey
Mailing address: 2420 Niamey Place, Washington DC 20521-2420
Telephone: [227] 20-72-26-61
FAX: [227] 20-73-55-60
Email address and website:
Consulateniamey@state.gov
https://ne.usembassy.gov/
Embassy: BP 11201, Niamey
Mailing address: 2420 Niamey Place, Washington DC 20521-2420
Telephone: [227] 20-72-26-61
FAX: [227] 20-73-55-60
Email address and website:
Consulateniamey@state.gov
https://ne.usembassy.gov/
Administrative divisions
7 regions (régions, singular - région) and 1 capital district* (communauté urbaine); Agadez, Diffa, Dosso, Maradi, Niamey*, Tahoua, Tillaberi, Zinder
Capital
Name: Niamey
Geographic coordinates: 13 31 N, 2 07 E
Time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Etymology: The origin of the name is unclear; one of many stories says that an African chief told his seven slaves "Wa niammane," meaning "stay here," and the name was later shortened to its present form
Geographic coordinates: 13 31 N, 2 07 E
Time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Etymology: The origin of the name is unclear; one of many stories says that an African chief told his seven slaves "Wa niammane," meaning "stay here," and the name was later shortened to its present form
Constitution
History: Several previous; passed by referendum 31 October 2010, entered into force 25 November 2010
Amendment process: Formerly proposed by the president of the republic or the National Assembly; consideration of amendments requires at least three-fourths majority vote by the Assembly; passage requires at least four-fifths majority vote; if disapproved, the proposed amendment is dropped or submitted to a referendum; constitutional articles on the form of government, the multiparty system, the separation of state and religion, disqualification of Assembly members, amendment procedures, and amnesty of participants in the 2010 coup cannot be amended
Note: On 26 July 2023, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, a military junta which took control of Niger's government, dissolved the country's constitution
Amendment process: Formerly proposed by the president of the republic or the National Assembly; consideration of amendments requires at least three-fourths majority vote by the Assembly; passage requires at least four-fifths majority vote; if disapproved, the proposed amendment is dropped or submitted to a referendum; constitutional articles on the form of government, the multiparty system, the separation of state and religion, disqualification of Assembly members, amendment procedures, and amnesty of participants in the 2010 coup cannot be amended
Note: On 26 July 2023, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, a military junta which took control of Niger's government, dissolved the country's constitution
Executive branch
Chief of state: President of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) General Abdourahame TIANI (since 28 July 2023)
Head of government: CNSP Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine ZEINE (since 9 August 2023)
Cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the CNSP
Election/appointment process: The CNSP rules by decree; previously, the president was directly elected by absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); prime minister was appointed by the president, authorized by the National Assembly
Most recent election date: 27 December 2020, with a runoff held on 21 February 2021
Election results:
2020/2021: Mohamed BAZOUM elected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Mohamed BAZOUM (PNDS-Tarrayya) 39.3%, Mahamane OUSMANE (MODEN/FA Lumana Africa) 17%, Seini OUMAROU (MNSD-Nassara) 9%, Albade ABOUDA (MPR-Jamhuriya) 7.1%, other 27.6%; percent of vote in second round - Mohamed BAZOUM 55.7%, Mahamane OUSMANE 44.3%
2016: ISSOUFOU Mahamadou reelected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - ISSOUFOU Mahamadou (PNDS-Tarrayya) 48.6%, Hama AMADOU (MODEN/FA Lumana Africa) 17.8%, Seini OUMAROU (MNSD-Nassara) 11.3%, other 22.3%; percent of vote in second round - ISSOUFOU Mahamadou 92%, Hama AMADOU 8%
Expected date of next election: 2025
Note: Deposed president BAZOUM has been under house arrest since a military coup on 26 July 2023
Head of government: CNSP Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine ZEINE (since 9 August 2023)
Cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the CNSP
Election/appointment process: The CNSP rules by decree; previously, the president was directly elected by absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); prime minister was appointed by the president, authorized by the National Assembly
Most recent election date: 27 December 2020, with a runoff held on 21 February 2021
Election results:
2020/2021: Mohamed BAZOUM elected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Mohamed BAZOUM (PNDS-Tarrayya) 39.3%, Mahamane OUSMANE (MODEN/FA Lumana Africa) 17%, Seini OUMAROU (MNSD-Nassara) 9%, Albade ABOUDA (MPR-Jamhuriya) 7.1%, other 27.6%; percent of vote in second round - Mohamed BAZOUM 55.7%, Mahamane OUSMANE 44.3%
2016: ISSOUFOU Mahamadou reelected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - ISSOUFOU Mahamadou (PNDS-Tarrayya) 48.6%, Hama AMADOU (MODEN/FA Lumana Africa) 17.8%, Seini OUMAROU (MNSD-Nassara) 11.3%, other 22.3%; percent of vote in second round - ISSOUFOU Mahamadou 92%, Hama AMADOU 8%
Expected date of next election: 2025
Note: Deposed president BAZOUM has been under house arrest since a military coup on 26 July 2023
Flag
Description: Three equal horizontal bands of orange (top), white, and green, with an orange disk centered on the white band
Meaning: Orange stands for the northern Sahara regions, white for purity and innocence, and green for hope and the fertile and productive southern and western areas, as well as the Niger River; the orange disc represents the sun and the people's sacrifices
Note: Similar to the flag of India, which has a blue spoked wheel centered on the white band
Meaning: Orange stands for the northern Sahara regions, white for purity and innocence, and green for hope and the fertile and productive southern and western areas, as well as the Niger River; the orange disc represents the sun and the people's sacrifices
Note: Similar to the flag of India, which has a blue spoked wheel centered on the white band
Independence
3 August 1960 (from France)
Judicial branch
Highest court(s): High Court of Justice (consists of 7 members); Supreme Court (membership NA); Constitutional Court (consists of 7 judges)
Judge selection and term of office: High Judicial Court members selected from among the legislature and judiciary to 5-year terms; Constitutional Court judges nominated/elected - 1 by the president of the Republic, 1 by the president of the National Assembly, 2 by peer judges, 2 by peer lawyers, 1 law professor by peers, and 1 from within Nigerien society; all appointed by the president; judges serve 6-year nonrenewable terms with one-third of membership renewed every 2 years
Subordinate courts: Court of Cassation; Council of State; Court of Finances; various specialized tribunals and customary courts
Judge selection and term of office: High Judicial Court members selected from among the legislature and judiciary to 5-year terms; Constitutional Court judges nominated/elected - 1 by the president of the Republic, 1 by the president of the National Assembly, 2 by peer judges, 2 by peer lawyers, 1 law professor by peers, and 1 from within Nigerien society; all appointed by the president; judges serve 6-year nonrenewable terms with one-third of membership renewed every 2 years
Subordinate courts: Court of Cassation; Council of State; Court of Finances; various specialized tribunals and customary courts
Legal system
Note: following the 26 July 2023 military coup, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland assumed control of all government institutions and rules by decree; formerly, mixed system of civil law, based on French civil law, Islamic law, and customary law
Legislative branch
Legislature name: Advisory Council for the Refoundation (Conseil consultatif de la refondation)
Legislative structure: Unicameral
Number of seats: 194 (all appointed)
Electoral system: Mixed system
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Most recent election date: 5/1/2025
Percentage of women in chamber: 19.6%
Note: On 26 July 2023, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, a military junta which took control of Niger's government, dissolved the National Assembly; a commission recommended to the junta in February 2025 a minimum of a five-year transition to democratic rule
Legislative structure: Unicameral
Number of seats: 194 (all appointed)
Electoral system: Mixed system
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Most recent election date: 5/1/2025
Percentage of women in chamber: 19.6%
Note: On 26 July 2023, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, a military junta which took control of Niger's government, dissolved the National Assembly; a commission recommended to the junta in February 2025 a minimum of a five-year transition to democratic rule
International organization participation
ACP, AfDB, AU (suspended), CD, EITI (compliant country), Entente, FAO, FZ, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LCBC, MIGA, MINUSCA, MNJTF, MONUSCO, NAM, OIC, OIF, OPCW, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOOSA, UNWTO, UPU, WADB (regional), WAEMU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
National holiday
Republic Day, 18 December (1958)
Note: Commemorates the founding of the Republic of Niger, which predated independence from France in 1960
Note: Commemorates the founding of the Republic of Niger, which predated independence from France in 1960
Political parties
Alliance for Democracy and the Republic
Alliance for Democratic Renewal or ARD-Adaltchi-Mutuntchi
Alliance of Movements for the Emergence of Niger or AMEN AMIN
Congress for the Republic or CPR-Inganci
Democratic Alternation for Equity in Niger
Democratic and Republican Renewal-RDR-Tchanji
Democratic Movement for the Emergence of Niger Falala
Democratic Patriots' Rally or RPD Bazara
National Movement for the Development of Society-Nassara or MNSD-Nassara
Nigerien Alliance for Democracy and Progress-Zaman Lahiya or ANDP-Zaman Lahiya
Nigerien Democratic Movement for an African Federation or MODEN/FA Lumana
Nigerien Party for Democracy and Socialism or PNDS-Tarrayya
Nigerien Patriotic Movement or MPN-Kishin Kassa
Nigerien Rally for Democracy and Peace
Patriotic Movement for the Republic or MPR-Jamhuriya
Peace, Justice, Progress–Generation Doubara
Rally for Democracy and Progress-Jama'a or RDP-Jama'a
Rally for Peace and Progress or RPP Farilla
Social Democratic Rally or RSD-Gaskiyya
Social Democratic Party or PSD-Bassira
Note: After the 26 July 2023 military coup, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland dissolved the National Assembly and prohibited all political party activity
Alliance for Democratic Renewal or ARD-Adaltchi-Mutuntchi
Alliance of Movements for the Emergence of Niger or AMEN AMIN
Congress for the Republic or CPR-Inganci
Democratic Alternation for Equity in Niger
Democratic and Republican Renewal-RDR-Tchanji
Democratic Movement for the Emergence of Niger Falala
Democratic Patriots' Rally or RPD Bazara
National Movement for the Development of Society-Nassara or MNSD-Nassara
Nigerien Alliance for Democracy and Progress-Zaman Lahiya or ANDP-Zaman Lahiya
Nigerien Democratic Movement for an African Federation or MODEN/FA Lumana
Nigerien Party for Democracy and Socialism or PNDS-Tarrayya
Nigerien Patriotic Movement or MPN-Kishin Kassa
Nigerien Rally for Democracy and Peace
Patriotic Movement for the Republic or MPR-Jamhuriya
Peace, Justice, Progress–Generation Doubara
Rally for Democracy and Progress-Jama'a or RDP-Jama'a
Rally for Peace and Progress or RPP Farilla
Social Democratic Rally or RSD-Gaskiyya
Social Democratic Party or PSD-Bassira
Note: After the 26 July 2023 military coup, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland dissolved the National Assembly and prohibited all political party activity
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Government type
formerly, semi-presidential republic
Note: On 26 July 2023, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, a military junta which took control of Niger's government, dissolved all government institutions, and rules by decree
Note: On 26 July 2023, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, a military junta which took control of Niger's government, dissolved all government institutions, and rules by decree
Country name
Conventional long form: Republic of Niger
Conventional short form: Niger
Local long form: République du Niger
Local short form: Niger
Etymology: Named for the Niger River that passes through the southwest of the country; the name of the river probably comes from the local Tuareg name, egereou n-igereouen (big rivers)
Note: Pronounced nee-ZHAIR
Conventional short form: Niger
Local long form: République du Niger
Local short form: Niger
Etymology: Named for the Niger River that passes through the southwest of the country; the name of the river probably comes from the local Tuareg name, egereou n-igereouen (big rivers)
Note: Pronounced nee-ZHAIR
Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d'Affaires Hassane IDI (since 3 August 2023)
Chancery: 2204 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
Telephone: [1] (202) 483-4224
FAX: [1] (202) 483-3169
Email address and website:
Communication@embassyofniger.org
http://www.embassyofniger.org/
Chancery: 2204 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
Telephone: [1] (202) 483-4224
FAX: [1] (202) 483-3169
Email address and website:
Communication@embassyofniger.org
http://www.embassyofniger.org/
National anthem(s)
Title: "L'Honneur de la Patrie" (The Honor of the Fatherland)
Lyrics/music: A government-appointed committee wrote both the lyrics and the music
History: Adopted 2023; replaced previous national anthem, "La Nigérienne" (The Nigerien), that was adopted in 1961
Lyrics/music: A government-appointed committee wrote both the lyrics and the music
History: Adopted 2023; replaced previous national anthem, "La Nigérienne" (The Nigerien), that was adopted in 1961
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
National symbol(s)
zebu
Citizenship
Citizenship by birth: No
Citizenship by descent only: At least one parent must be a citizen of Niger
Dual citizenship recognized: Yes
Residency requirement for naturalization: Unknown
Citizenship by descent only: At least one parent must be a citizen of Niger
Dual citizenship recognized: Yes
Residency requirement for naturalization: Unknown
National heritage
Total World Heritage Sites: 3 (1 cultural, 2 natural)
Selected World Heritage Site locales: Air and Ténéré Natural Reserves (n); W-Arly-Pendjari Complex (n); Historic Agadez (c)
Selected World Heritage Site locales: Air and Ténéré Natural Reserves (n); W-Arly-Pendjari Complex (n); Historic Agadez (c)
National color(s)
orange, white, green
Population below poverty line
45.5% (2021 est.)
note: % of population with income below national poverty line
note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Household income or consumption by percentage share
Lowest 10%: 3.8% (2021 est.)
Highest 10%: 27.8% (2021 est.)
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Highest 10%: 27.8% (2021 est.)
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Exports - commodities
gold, oil seeds, uranium and thorium ore, radioactive chemicals, refined petroleum (2023)
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Exports - partners
UAE 31%, France 23%, China 18%, India 6%, Sweden 5% (2023)
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Agricultural products
millet, cowpeas, sorghum, onions, milk, sugarcane, cabbages, cassava, groundnuts, tomatoes (2023)
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Budget
Revenues: $2.325 billion (2019 est.)
Expenditures: $2.785 billion (2019 est.)
Expenditures: $2.785 billion (2019 est.)
Imports - commodities
rice, aircraft parts, iron structures, refined petroleum, centrifuges (2023)
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Exchange rates
Communaute Financiere Africaine francs (XOF) per US dollar -
Exchange rates:
606.345 (2024 est.)
606.57 (2023 est.)
623.76 (2022 est.)
554.531 (2021 est.)
575.586 (2020 est.)
Exchange rates:
606.345 (2024 est.)
606.57 (2023 est.)
623.76 (2022 est.)
554.531 (2021 est.)
575.586 (2020 est.)
Industries
uranium mining, petroleum, cement, brick, soap, textiles, food processing, chemicals, slaughterhouses
Economic overview
low-income Sahel economy; major instability and humanitarian crises limit economic activity; COVID-19 eliminated recent antipoverty gains; economy rebounding since December 2020 Nigerian border reopening and new investments; uranium resource rich
GDP (official exchange rate)
$19.538 billion (2024 est.)
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
GDP - composition, by end use
Household consumption: 59.2% (2024 est.)
Government consumption: 11.8% (2024 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 18.7% (2024 est.)
Investment in inventories: 0% (2024 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 31.2% (2024 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -20.8% (2024 est.)
Note: Figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Government consumption: 11.8% (2024 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 18.7% (2024 est.)
Investment in inventories: 0% (2024 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 31.2% (2024 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -20.8% (2024 est.)
Note: Figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Imports - partners
China 26%, France 15%, India 12%, Nigeria 7%, UAE 6% (2023)
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Remittances
3.7% of GDP (2023 est.)
4.7% of GDP (2022 est.)
2.4% of GDP (2021 est.)
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
4.7% of GDP (2022 est.)
2.4% of GDP (2021 est.)
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Labor force
10.486 million (2024 est.)
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Debt - external
$3.793 billion (2023 est.)
note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Unemployment rate
0.4% (2024 est.)
0.5% (2023 est.)
0.5% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
0.5% (2023 est.)
0.5% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$47.921 billion (2024 est.)
$44.199 billion (2023 est.)
$43.474 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$44.199 billion (2023 est.)
$43.474 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Inflation rate (consumer prices)
9.1% (2024 est.)
3.7% (2023 est.)
4.2% (2022 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
3.7% (2023 est.)
4.2% (2022 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
Current account balance
-$2.333 billion (2023 est.)
-$2.5 billion (2022 est.)
-$2.099 billion (2021 est.)
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
-$2.5 billion (2022 est.)
-$2.099 billion (2021 est.)
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Real GDP per capita
$1,800 (2024 est.)
$1,700 (2023 est.)
$1,700 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$1,700 (2023 est.)
$1,700 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Imports
$3.808 billion (2023 est.)
$4.194 billion (2022 est.)
$4.027 billion (2021 est.)
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
$4.194 billion (2022 est.)
$4.027 billion (2021 est.)
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports
$1.223 billion (2023 est.)
$1.376 billion (2022 est.)
$1.487 billion (2021 est.)
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
$1.376 billion (2022 est.)
$1.487 billion (2021 est.)
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Real GDP growth rate
8.4% (2024 est.)
1.7% (2023 est.)
11.9% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
1.7% (2023 est.)
11.9% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
Industrial production growth rate
12.1% (2024 est.)
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
Agriculture: 33.8% (2024 est.)
Industry: 17.8% (2024 est.)
Services: 45.4% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Industry: 17.8% (2024 est.)
Services: 45.4% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Electricity access
Electrification - total population: 19.5% (2022 est.)
Electrification - urban areas: 66.1%
Electrification - rural areas: 7.7%
Electrification - urban areas: 66.1%
Electrification - rural areas: 7.7%
Coal
Production: 427,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Consumption: 426,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Imports: 400 metric tons (2023 est.)
Proven reserves: 90 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Consumption: 426,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Imports: 400 metric tons (2023 est.)
Proven reserves: 90 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
Fossil fuels: 97% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Solar: 3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Solar: 3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Natural gas
Production: 26.805 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Consumption: 26.872 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Consumption: 26.872 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Petroleum
Total petroleum production: 13,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 18,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Crude oil estimated reserves: 150 million barrels (2021 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 18,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Crude oil estimated reserves: 150 million barrels (2021 est.)
Electricity
Installed generating capacity: 377,000 kW (2023 est.)
Consumption: 1.645 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Imports: 1.213 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 372.245 million kWh (2023 est.)
Consumption: 1.645 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Imports: 1.213 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 372.245 million kWh (2023 est.)
Internet users
Percent of population: 23% (2023 est.)
Internet country code
.ne
Broadcast media
state-run TV station; 3 private TV stations provide a mix of local and foreign programming; state-run radio has the only radio station with national coverage; about 30 private local radio stations; as many as 100 community radio stations; transmissions of multiple international broadcasters are available
Telephones - mobile cellular
Total subscriptions: 14.2 million (2021 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 56 (2021 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 56 (2021 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions
Total: 14,000 (2022 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Telephones - fixed lines
Total subscriptions: 58,000 (2021 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
5U
Airports
26 (2025)
Military service age and obligation
18 is the legal minimum age for selective compulsory or voluntary military service for unmarried men and women; 24-month service term (2023)
Military expenditures
2.2% of GDP (2024 est.)
2% of GDP (2023 est.)
1.7% of GDP (2022 est.)
1.8% of GDP (2021 est.)
2% of GDP (2020 est.)
2% of GDP (2023 est.)
1.7% of GDP (2022 est.)
1.8% of GDP (2021 est.)
2% of GDP (2020 est.)
Military and security forces
Nigerien Armed Forces (Forces Armees Nigeriennes, FAN): Army, Nigerien Air Force, Niger Gendarmerie (GN)
Ministry of Interior, Public Safety and Decentralization: Niger National Guard (GNN), National Police (2025)
Note 1: The Gendarmerie (GN) and the National Guard (GNN) are paramilitary forces; the GN has primary responsibility for rural security while the GNN is responsible for domestic security and the protection of high-level officials and government buildings
Note 2: The National Police includes the Directorate of Territorial Surveillance, which is charged with border management
Ministry of Interior, Public Safety and Decentralization: Niger National Guard (GNN), National Police (2025)
Note 1: The Gendarmerie (GN) and the National Guard (GNN) are paramilitary forces; the GN has primary responsibility for rural security while the GNN is responsible for domestic security and the protection of high-level officials and government buildings
Note 2: The National Police includes the Directorate of Territorial Surveillance, which is charged with border management
Military - note
the military of Niger is responsible for territorial defense, but most of its focus is on internal and border security operations; the Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham in the Greater Sahara (ISIS-GS) and the al-Qaida affiliate Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) terrorist groups are active in western Niger and in adjacent strongholds in Burkina Faso and Mali, while the Nigeria-based Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa groups threaten southeast Niger; parts of Niger also face spillover from communal, criminal, and vigilante violence in neighboring Nigeria; since the 2023 coup, some former ethnic separatist rebels have taken up arms in support of deposed President BAZOUM
The military has played a significant role in Niger's domestic politics since its establishment in 1960-61; prior to seizing control of the government in 2023, it attempted coups in 1974, 1996, 1999, 2010, and 2021, and ruled the country for much of the period before 1999 (2025)
The military has played a significant role in Niger's domestic politics since its establishment in 1960-61; prior to seizing control of the government in 2023, it attempted coups in 1974, 1996, 1999, 2010, and 2021, and ruled the country for much of the period before 1999 (2025)
Military and security service personnel strengths
estimated 35-40,000 active Nigerien Armed Forces, including Gendarmerie; estimated 5-10,000 National Guard (2025)
Note: In 2020, the Nigerien Government announced it intended to increase the size of the FAN to 50,000 by 2025 and 100,000 by 2030
Note: In 2020, the Nigerien Government announced it intended to increase the size of the FAN to 50,000 by 2025 and 100,000 by 2030
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the FAN has a wide mix of mostly older, typically Soviet-era, or donated/secondhand weapons and equipment, along with small quantities of more modern items such as unmanned aerial vehicles/drones and air defense systems; suppliers have included China, Egypt, France, Italy, Russia, Turkey, and the US (2024)
Military deployments
Note: In 2024, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger announced they were forming a joint force of 5,000 troops to combat extremist groups in the Sahel
Refugees and internally displaced persons
Refugees: 421,795 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 891,565 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 891,565 (2024 est.)
Trafficking in persons
Tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List — the government did not demonstrate overall increasing efforts to eliminate trafficking compared with the previous reporting period, therefore Niger remained on Tier 2 Watch List for the second consecutive year; for more details, go to: https://www.state.gov/reports/2025-trafficking-in-persons-report/niger/
Terrorist group(s)
Terrorist group(s): Boko Haram; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham in the Greater Sahara (ISIS-GS); Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – West Africa (ISIS-WA); Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM); al-Mulathamun Battalion (al-Mourabitoun)
Note: Details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide
Note: Details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide
Methane emissions
Energy: 137.8 kt (2022-2024 est.)
Agriculture: 713.8 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Waste: 128.2 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Other: 11.1 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Agriculture: 713.8 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Waste: 128.2 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Other: 11.1 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
32.9 (2021 est.)
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality