Independence Day in 2025

When is Nigerien Independence Day?

Independence Day is a public holiday in Niger on August 3rd each year.

This holiday commemorates full independence from France on this day in 1960.

History of Nigerien Independence Day

As a landlocked region in Western Africa, Niger was one of the last African countries to be colonised by Europeans. France increased its military efforts to conquer Niger after the 1885 Berlin conference which carved Africa into regions for the colonial powers.

The French met with large resistance in Niger with all of the ethnic groups rebelling against the European invaders. It was not until 1922 and two decades of fighting that Niger finally came under French control and became a colony in 1922, administered as part of French West Africa.

Did you know?

Niger is considered one of the hottest countries in the world and has the nickname the "Frying Pan of the World."

In 1946 with the establishment of the Fourth French Republic, Niger became an overseas territory of France with its own parliament and representation in the French national assembly.

On December 4th 1958, Niger became a self-governing autonomous state within the French Community.  On December 18th 1958, the Republic of Niger was officially created.

In July 1960 France agreed to Niger becoming fully independent. Niger gained its full independence on August 3rd 1960, with Hamani Diori becoming Niger's first president.