Country Profile: Niger

Niger, a landlocked country in Western Africa, is characterized by its predominantly desert terrain and significant cultural diversity. With a population of over 27 million, the nation faces substantial developmental challenges, evidenced by its ranking near the bottom of the UN Development Program's Human Development Index. Economically, Niger is heavily reliant on agriculture and natural resources such as uranium, though instability and humanitarian crises often hinder growth. Governance has fluctuated between democratic processes and military rule, with the most recent coup occurring in July 2023.

Geography

Niger is located in Western Africa, southeast of Algeria, and is the largest country in West Africa. It has an area of approximately 1.267 million square kilometers and is completely landlocked with no coastline. The country features predominantly desert plains in the north and savanna regions in the south, which are suitable for limited agriculture and grazing.

1.267 million sq km - Total area
5,834 km - Total land borders with Algeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Libya, Mali, and Nigeria
200 m - Lowest point at the Niger River
2,022 m - Highest point at Idoukal-n-Taghes

People and Society

Niger's population is estimated to be over 27 million, with a youthful demographic characterized by a median age of just 15.3 years. The society is comprised of multiple ethnic groups, with the Hausa being the largest. The majority of Nigeriens are Muslim, and the country faces significant challenges in education and health, as evidenced by a literacy rate of only 35.6% and a high birth rate.

27.3 million - Estimated population (2025)
95.5% - Proportion of Muslims in the population
6.55 children - Total fertility rate (2025 est.)
60.9 years - Life expectancy at birth (2024 est.)

Economy

Niger's economy is primarily agrarian, largely dependent on subsistence farming and mineral resources, particularly uranium. Recent growth has been hindered by instability and humanitarian crises, though the economy has shown signs of recovery. With a high unemployment rate and a significant portion of the population living below the poverty line, the government continues efforts to diversify the economy.

$47.9 billion - Projected real GDP (PPP) for 2024
33.8% - Agriculture's contribution to GDP (2024 est.)
0.4% - Unemployment rate (2024 est.)
45.5% - Population living below the poverty line (2021 est.)

Government

Niger's government has undergone significant changes, transitioning from a semi-presidential republic to military rule following a coup in July 2023. The country operates under a military junta, which has dissolved previous democratic institutions. Niger's political history includes multiple coups and attempts at democratic governance, underscoring ongoing instability.

1 - Current military junta in power post-coup (July 2023)
18 years - Minimum voting age for suffrage
7 - Total administrative regions and capital district
3 August 1960 - Date of independence from France

Military and Security

The Nigerien Armed Forces are responsible for national defense and internal security, facing challenges from various terrorist groups and regional instability. The military has been involved in several coups throughout the country's history, reflecting its significant role in governance.

50,000 - Estimated active military personnel (2025)
2.2% - Military expenditures as a percentage of GDP (2024 est.)
18 - Legal minimum age for military service
5 - Major terrorist groups active in the region

Energy

Niger's energy infrastructure is heavily dependent on fossil fuels, with limited electricity access for its population. The installed electricity generation capacity is modest, and the country aims to increase its energy production, including through solar sources.

19.5% - Total electricity access (2022 est.)
377,000 kW - Installed generating capacity (2023 est.)
1.645 billion kWh - Total electricity consumption (2023 est.)
97% - Contribution of fossil fuels to total installed capacity (2023 est.)

Environment

Niger is facing numerous environmental challenges, including desertification, soil erosion, and inadequate access to potable water. The country is party to various international environmental agreements, addressing issues from biodiversity to climate change.

36.8% - Agricultural land use (2023 est.)
3.132 million metric tons - Total CO2 emissions (2023 est.)
421,795 - Estimated refugees (2024 est.)
891,565 - Internally displaced persons (2024 est.)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	27,322,555 (2025 est.)
Area	1.267 million sq km
GDP (PPP)	$47.921 billion (2024 est.)
Birth Rate	46.29 births/1,000 (2025)
Unemployment Rate	0.4% (2024 est.)
Life Expectancy	60.9 years (2024 est.)
Literacy Rate	35.6% (2022 est.)
Refugees	421,795 (2024 est.)
Electricity Access	19.5% (2022 est.)
Agricultural Land Usage	36.8% (2023 est.)