Niger is making bold moves to erase the remnants of its colonial past. In a recent decision, authorities in the capital city, Niamey, renamed several streets and monuments that once carried French names, signaling the country’s effort to distance itself from its former colonizer. This comes at a time when anti-French sentiment is growing across many of France’s former colonies in Africa.
In recent months, Niger has been part of a broader push to cut ties with France. The country revoked the license of a French uranium mining company, closed down a major French school, and even started an investigation against a France 24 journalist and also banned the French TV show ‘The Bachelor’. Now, by renaming some of its most famous historical sites, Niger is sending a clear message that it wants to reclaim its identity and honor its own heroes.
One of the most striking changes was the renaming of a major avenue that used to honor General Charles de Gaulle, a famous French leader. The street now carries the name of Djibo Bakary, a key figure in Niger’s fight for independence from France in 1960. This is a powerful symbol of the country’s desire to celebrate its own history and people.
Even the monument for soldiers who died in the two world wars has been renamed. Once a tribute to the French, the monument now bears a local name, “Bubandey Batama,” which translates to “to our dead” in the Djerma language. The monument now pays tribute to all the civilians and soldiers who lost their lives, not just in the wars but also during the painful years of colonization.
Residents of Niamey are welcoming these changes. One citizen told Sputnik Africa that renaming these places after great African and Nigerien figures is a move to be celebrated. “It’s an initiative that I think is important. If we could rename all the streets and places to honor our own heroes, it would help us remember the importance of our history,” they said.
Another local resident expressed even stronger feelings, saying that Africans, and particularly the people of Niger, are becoming more aware of the lasting harm caused by colonization. “The Whites didn’t do us any good. They exploited us for a long time, and it’s time to honor our own,” they explained.
For many in Niger, these changes mark a new chapter in the country’s journey toward full decolonization. It’s not just about changing names on signs—it’s about reshaping the country’s identity and future. By removing the symbols of colonization, Niger is paving the way for a renewed sense of national pride and independence.
As Niger continues to push back against its colonial past, the rest of the world watches closely. Will other countries in Africa follow Niger’s lead? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the people of Niger are determined to reclaim their history and shape their future on their own terms.
