Niger — Capital, Flag and Country Facts

Explore Niger: capital Niamey, population, flag, geography, languages, history and culture.

Niger is in Africa. Its capital is Niamey.

Population
26,210,000
Area
1,267,000 km²
Currency
West African CFA Franc (XOF)
Languages
French

Climate

Desert in the north; tropical in the extreme south with a distinct rainy season

Terrain

Predominantly desert plains and sand dunes; flat to rolling plains in the south; hills in the north

Facts

Niger has the world's highest fertility rate, averaging about 7 children per woman.

Niger is the world's fourth-largest producer of uranium.

The Ténéré region of Niger is one of the most desolate parts of the Sahara, known as the "desert within a desert."

History

1400: Songhai Empire expands influence over western Niger

1900: France establishes colonial control over the territory

1960: Independence from France under Hamani Diori

1974: Military coup establishes military rule for decades

2010: Military coup followed by return to democratic governance

2023: Military coup removes President Mohamed Bazoum from power