Niger is a landlocked country in West Africa, bordered by Algeria, Libya, Chad, Nigeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, and Mali. It is known for the vast Sahara Desert that covers much of its northern territory, as well as the fertile Niger River valley in the southwest. The country is also one of the world's leading producers of uranium.
- Capital
- Niamey
- Continent
- Africa
- Region
- Western Africa
- Area
- 1,267,000 km²
- Coordinates
- 16° N, 8° E
Country facts
- Niger takes its name from the Niger River, which flows through the southwestern part of the country.
- The Tuareg people, a nomadic Berber group, have inhabited Niger's Saharan regions for centuries and maintain a rich traditional culture.
- Niger gained independence from France on August 3, 1960.
- The W National Park, shared with Benin and Burkina Faso, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to elephants, lions, and hippos.
- French is Niger's official language, though Hausa is the most widely spoken language among its population.
Capital facts
- Niamey sits on the banks of the Niger River in the far southwest of the country.
- The Grand Mosque of Niamey is one of the city's most prominent landmarks and a center of Islamic life.
- The National Museum of Niger in Niamey features exhibits on the country's history, traditional crafts, and a zoo with local wildlife.
- Niamey grew significantly as an administrative center during the French colonial period in the early twentieth century.
- The Kennedy Bridge, spanning the Niger River in Niamey, is a vital link connecting different parts of the city.