In a significant move to shed its colonial legacy, Niger has officially designated Hausa as its national language, demoting French to a basic working language. This decision is part of the country's Refoundation Charter, which aims to redefine its national identity and government.

The charter, published in Niger's Official Journal, marks a significant shift in the country's political and cultural direction. French, which was once the dominant language of administration and education in Niger, lost its official status in mid-March when Niger, along with Mali, left the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). The OIF is a grouping of French-speaking countries that promotes cultural and linguistic relations among members.

Niger's decision to leave the OIF was prompted by the military coup that deposed President Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023. The OIF suspended Niger's membership immediately after the coup, demanding a restoration to democratic governance and the release of Bazoum and his wife, who are still detained under the junta administration.

The Refoundation Charter not only establishes Hausa as the national language but also represents the current leadership's efforts to redefine the country's political and cultural direction. The charter also formally appoints General Abdourahamane Tiani as President of the Republic for a 60-month transition period, strengthening the junta's control.

This initiative aligns Niger with other Sahelian countries looking to eliminate leftover colonial systems and assert their independence in policy and identity. With Hausa, a widely spoken language in West Africa, rising to national prominence, Niger is showing a desire to connect more closely with its indigenous origins and regional allies rather than previous colonial powers.

Niger has been working to free itself of remaining French influence, creating a regional alliance with Burkina Faso and Mali. The country has also renamed streets with colonial-era names and plans to re-write its colonial history from its own perspective.

In December 2023, France finalized the withdrawal of its troops from Niger, following an exit request from the country's junta government. This occurred just before France closed its embassy in Niger indefinitely. The move is seen as a significant step towards Niger's independence and a shift away from its colonial past.

The implications of this move are far-reaching, with Niger asserting its autonomy and distancing itself from its colonial legacy. As the country looks to redefine its national identity and government, this decision is likely to have a significant impact on its relationships with regional allies and the international community.

In conclusion, Niger's decision to designate Hausa as its national language marks a significant shift in the country's post-colonial trajectory. As the country looks to assert its independence and distance itself from its colonial past, this move is likely to have far-reaching implications for its national identity, government, and relationships with the international community.