Country Profile: Niger

Niger, located in Western Africa, is a landlocked country characterized by its predominantly desert terrain and agrarian economy. With a population of over 27 million, the country is one of the poorest globally, grappling with significant governance challenges, including political instability marked by a recent military coup in 2023. Despite these hurdles, Niger is resource-rich, particularly in uranium, and is actively seeking economic diversification through initiatives in mining and oil production.

Geography

Niger is situated in Western Africa, landlocked, and bordered by several countries including Algeria, Mali, and Nigeria. The terrain is primarily desert with some rolling plains, and it experiences a hot, dry climate typical of the Sahel region. Natural resources include uranium, coal, and iron ore, making it rich in minerals although much of the population relies on subsistence farming.

1.267 million sq km: Total area of Niger.
5,834 km: Total land boundaries with neighboring countries.
200 m: Lowest point at the Niger River.
2,022 m: Highest point at Idoukal-n-Taghes.
36.8%: Percentage of land used for agriculture as of 2023.
62.4%: Percentage of land classified as other uses.

People and Society

As of 2025, Niger's estimated population is approximately 27.3 million, with a notable youthful demographic where nearly half are under 15 years old. The society is diverse, primarily comprising ethnic groups such as the Hausa and Zarma. Niger is predominantly Muslim, and its literacy rate remains low at about 35.6%. Challenges in health and education persist amid high poverty levels.

49.5%: Percentage of the population aged 0-14 years.
3.65%: Population growth rate estimated for 2025.
46.29 births: Birth rate per 1,000 population in 2025.
60.9 years: Life expectancy at birth for the total population.
350 deaths: Maternal mortality ratio per 100,000 live births in 2023.
17.1%: Urban population as of 2023.

Economy

Niger's economy is characterized as low-income, significantly impacted by humanitarian crises and recent disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic. The country's GDP has shown signs of recovery, aided by investments in mining and oil following the reopening of the Nigerian border. However, the majority of the population lives in poverty, and economic activities often hinge on agriculture, which is vulnerable to climate conditions.

$47.921 billion: Projected real GDP (PPP) for 2024.
33.8%: Contribution of agriculture to GDP in 2024.
0.4%: Unemployment rate estimated for 2024.
45.5%: Population below the poverty line as of 2021.
2.2%: Military expenditures as a percentage of GDP for 2024.

Government

Niger operates under a military regime since a coup in July 2023, following years of transitions between democratic and military rule. The government structure includes several regions managed by appointed leaders, with a focus on stabilizing the country amidst ongoing security challenges. The political scene is characterized by a restricted environment for political parties.

18 years: Universal suffrage age for citizens.
6 hours ahead: Time difference from Washington, DC.
Independent since: August 3, 1960, from France.
194: Number of seats in the Advisory Council for the Refoundation (all appointed).

Military and Security

The Nigerien Armed Forces comprise the Army, Air Force, and Gendarmerie, focused primarily on internal and border security. The military faces challenges from various militant groups, including Boko Haram and ISIS affiliates, which pose considerable security risks.

50,000: Estimated active personnel in the Armed Forces as of 2025.
2%: Military expenditures as a percentage of GDP for 2023.
24 months: Mandatory service term for military conscription.

Energy

Electricity access remains limited in Niger, with urban areas having better access than rural zones. The country relies heavily on fossil fuels for its energy needs, though efforts are being made to diversify sources.

19.5%: Electrification rate for the total population as of 2022.
377,000 kW: Installed electricity generating capacity in 2023.
1.645 billion kWh: Total electricity consumption in 2023.

Environment

Niger faces significant environmental challenges including desertification, deforestation, and water contamination. Overgrazing and inadequate sanitation further complicate the situation, impacting both wildlife and human populations.

3.132 million metric tonnes: Total carbon dioxide emissions in 2023.
34,050,000,000 cubic meters: Total renewable water resources as of 2022.
20.3%: Percentage of municipal solid waste recycled in 2022.

Transportation

Niger has a limited infrastructure, with a small number of airports serving its transportation needs.

26: Total airports in the country as of 2025.

Communications

The communications sector in Niger is developing, with increasing mobile subscriptions, although internet access remains relatively low.

17.2 million: Mobile cellular subscriptions as of 2023.
23%: Percentage of the population using the internet in 2023.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	27,322,555 (2025 est.)
Area	1.267 million sq km
GDP (PPP)	$47.921 billion (2024 est.)
Energy Consumption	1.772 million Btu/person	2023 estimate
Birth Rate	46.29 births/1,000 people	2025 estimate
Unemployment Rate	0.4% (2024 est.)
Literacy Rate	35.6% (2022 est.)