and ongoing transition under the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP). The country’s economy is narrowly based, heavily dependent on agriculture and emerging oil production, while insecurity persists in several regions. Despite these pressures, GDP growth is projected at 6.5% in 2025, driven largely by oil output, with improved diplomatic engagement and gradual stabilization efforts underway.
Introduction
Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world, with a largely agrarian economy vulnerable to drought, climate change, and insecurity. Its political landscape in 2025 is shaped by the 2023 coup, ongoing transition, and efforts to restore stability and governance.
Geography
Niger is a landlocked West African country covering 1.267 million sq km, making it the largest landlocked state in West Africa. Over 80% of its territory lies in the Sahara Desert, with population concentrated in the southern regions.
People and Society
Niger’s population is predominantly Muslim (99.3%), with major ethnic groups including Hausa, Zarma-Songhai, Tuareg, Fulani, and Kanuri. The population is extremely young, with a median age around 16 (inferred from demographic patterns). Poverty remains widespread, and humanitarian needs increased to nearly 3 million people in 2025.
Government
As of 2025, Niger is governed by a military junta led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, operating under a transitional charter adopted in March 2025. The CNSP controls executive and legislative authority. Diplomatic relations with some partners, including the EU, improved in 2025.
Population
Estimated population in 2025: 27.3 million. Population density remains low at around 21–22 people per sq km, with most residents living in the south and west.
Economy
Niger’s economy is narrow and agriculture-dependent, with increasing reliance on oil production and mining. Key 2025 indicators:
- GDP growth: projected 6.5%
- Inflation: ~4.2%
- Oil output: rising to 28 million barrels
- Extreme poverty: projected to decline by 2.8 percentage points Economic challenges include drought, insecurity, and limited fiscal space.
Energy
Niger holds significant uranium reserves, historically central to its export economy. Oil production is expanding and is the primary driver of 2025 economic growth. Energy access remains limited, especially in rural areas.
Communications
Niger uses the .ne internet domain and the +227 calling code. Communications infrastructure remains underdeveloped, with limited broadband penetration and reliance on mobile networks.
Transportation
As a landlocked country, Niger depends heavily on road transport and cross-border trade routes. The border with Benin remained closed in 2025, disrupting commercial flows and formal transit links.
Military and Security
Security threats persist in multiple regions:
- Liptako-Gourma (Tillaberi)
- Lake Chad Basin (Diffa)
- Southern/western Dosso region Armed groups continue attacks, kidnappings, extortion, and sabotage. The military government prioritizes stabilization and counterterrorism operations.
Travel Advice
Travelers should exercise extreme caution due to:
- Widespread insecurity and terrorism risks
- Political instability under military rule
- Border closures and disrupted transport
- Limited medical and emergency services (General inference based on security conditions described in sources.)
Expected Trends for 2026
Based on projections and 2025 conditions:
- GDP growth expected to average ~6.7% in 2026–2027, driven by oil reaching full capacity.
- Continued security challenges, though stabilization efforts may gradually improve conditions.
- Potential economic diversification efforts, especially in agriculture and mining.
- Ongoing political transition, with uncertainty around timelines for restoring civilian rule.
