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Niger Designates Hausa as National Language.
A recent charter published in Niger Republic officially designates Hausa as the national language. The move, confirmed on March 31st, marks a significant shift away from the nation’s colonial linguistic legacy, where French held a dominant position.
While English and French are designated as working languages, the charter explicitly states, “The national language is Hausa.” This decision acknowledges the widespread use of Hausa throughout the country, particularly in regions such as Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua, where it is the most commonly spoken language. With an estimated majority of Niger’s 26 million population understanding Hausa, the adoption seeks to solidify a more indigenous linguistic identity.
The charter also recognizes Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic as spoken languages within the country, acknowledging its diverse linguistic landscape. The ramifications of this shift towards Hausa as the national language remain to be seen, but it undoubtedly represents a pivotal moment in Niger’s post-colonial trajectory.